Adult Autism: Thriving in the Workplace and Building Relationships

Unique sensory needs and rigid workplace expectations that don't accommodate different approaches can add pressure for autistic employees, who must work harder to meet standards that may not align with their natural ways of thinking and operating. While bright lights, loud noises and open office spaces can overwhelm anyone's nervous system, these conditions may be particularly challenging for many autistic folks. Likewise, misunderstanding social cues or receiving vague instructions from supervisors can lead to stress and confusion. Employees with autism often experience heightened emotional responses in these environments.

"Autistic individuals often feel emotions deeply and can easily sense when their coworkers are upset,” said Alisyn Van Note, a licensed professional counselor specializing in autism for Burrell Behavioral Health. “This can lead to a defensive response or emotional overload, making it hard to manage work stress due to the mask they wear to fit in." 

The emotional burden of masking autistic behaviors can significantly increase the risk of burnout. Autistic burnout is more than simple exhaustion. It’s an intense, overwhelming state caused by prolonged masking, sensory overload and the constant effort to navigate environments that don’t accommodate neurodivergent needs. Unlike general workplace burnout, which is often linked to overwork, autistic burnout can lead to heightened sensory sensitivities, difficulty with communication, and even a temporary loss of skills.

As burnout worsens, masking becomes harder, making it more difficult to regulate emotions, maintain productivity, and meet social expectations. This can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, or performance struggles that may ultimately result in job loss—whether due to an employer’s decision or the individual leaving to protect their well-being.

Despite the difficulty of adapting to workplace norms, many autistic individuals leverage their unique strengths to excel in their careers. Their preference for structure and routine makes them dependable and committed team members. A keen attention to detail allows them to catch inconsistencies others might overlook, making them highly effective in precision-based work. They often display deep focus, expertise, and dedication when engaged in meaningful tasks. Many thrive in environments where they can work independently, demonstrating strong self-motivation and efficiency without the need for micromanagement. These strengths contribute valuable, innovative problem-solving skills that can help any organization succeed.

One requirement for an autism diagnosis involves social-emotional difficulties, which affect how individuals connect with others. Although ASD has some common traits, every autistic person is unique. Some autistic people thrive in social settings and have meaningful relationships. These same people may need time by themselves to recharge once their social energy runs out. Interactions are much more complex for others who may struggle to interpret social cues, understand context or navigate conversations without taking all words literally.

"Autistic individuals think in facts first, whereas most neurotypical people, or 'allistics,' think with emotions,” Van Note said. “These differing ways of processing emotions and communication can lead to misunderstandings. For example, when an allistic asks, 'How are you?' and the autistic person answers honestly, 'Not great, it's been a rough day,' it can cause confusion. An autistic person might also hear 'I'm fine' and interpret it literally, missing the emotional cues that would prompt further conversation.”

Building supportive relationships is crucial for anyone’s mental health. While autistic people may express empathy in nontraditional ways, they care deeply about the well-being of those they love. It's essential to recognize that autistic individuals, like neurotypical people, desire relationships, friendships and intimate connections. However, their needs in these relationships can differ significantly, whether around physical touch, emotional regulation or sensory experiences.

Many autistic people communicate directly and honestly, which can sometimes cause challenges in relationships if this straightforward communication style is interpreted as rude or seems abrasive. It can also lead to clear, open conversations without hidden agendas that build deep and trustworthy connections. Enthusiasm for topics they love can bring excitement, shared learning, and unique perspectives to relationships.

Although we are all unique as individuals, neurodivergent and neurotypical people benefit from relationships built on mutual understanding, respect, and authenticity. When we embrace each other’s differences and communicate with openness and empathy, we create stronger, more meaningful connections that enrich everyone’s lives.

Dr. Seth Allen, ED.D., director of Autism Services at Brightli affiliate Burrell Behavioral Health, highlights the importance of understanding and collaboration in both professional and personal settings. 
"There is no 'one-size-fits-all' approach, so collaboration is key,” Allen said. “It's essential to ask and listen to individuals about what accommodations or supports will work best for them."

Healthy relationships allow for growth and learning, even when the process takes time and intentional effort. Autistic individuals often feel pressure to mask their traits—suppressing stimming, forcing eye contact, or carefully scripting conversations—to fit into neurotypical expectations. Over time, this mental and emotional burden can lead to exhaustion, anxiety, and a diminished sense of self.

But when workplaces, friendships, and families foster environments where autistic people feel truly comfortable and authentic, everyone benefits. Autistic individuals can engage more fully without the stress of masking, and neurotypical people gain deeper, more meaningful connections built on mutual trust and understanding. Embracing neurodiversity doesn’t just support autistic individuals. It enriches communities, strengthens teams, and creates space for all minds to thrive.