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Symptoms

Articles about symptoms, written with lived experience and community insight.

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Is Shrek Autistic? Why So Many of Us See Ourselves in the Beloved Ogre

Many autistic adults see similiarities between ourselves and Shrek — a misunderstood character who values honesty, solitude, and authenticity. His journey from isolation to self-acceptance mirrors the real-life experience of... Read more...

Sensory Rooms: Designing a Calming Space

Discover how to design calming sensory rooms with essential features, color, sound, lighting, and more. Read more...

Autism Research and Early Detection Methods

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that presents challenges in social interaction, communication, and behavior. Its early detection is crucial for effective intervention. This article delves into... Read more...

Autism Clocks: Visual Tools for Calm, Routine & Self-Regulation

Visual time tools like autism-friendly wall clocks can help reduce stress, improve executive function, and support a more predictable day — for all ages. Read more...

Sensory Overload in Adults: Tips to Calm the Senses

This article provides an overview of sensory overload in adults, including its causes, associated health conditions, symptoms, coping strategies, tips to calm your senses, creating a sensory-friendly environment, and the... Read more...

Supporting Loved Ones with Sensory Overload: Practical Tips for Caregivers

This article provides tips and strategies for supporting individuals with sensory overload, including recognizing signs and symptoms, creating a supportive environment, utilizing sensory tools and techniques, and prioritizing caregiver self-care. Read more...

The Story Behind Our Autism T-Shirt Designs

At Hey ASD, we’re passionate about creating clothing that does more than just cover you up – it empowers you. Our autism t-shirt designs are crafted with a focus on... Read more...

Autism-Friendly Colors: Designing Calming Spaces That Support the Autism Spectrum

Color isn’t just visual — it’s sensory. For autistic adults, the right palette can calm the nervous system, reduce overwhelm, and create a sense of belonging. This guide explores autism-friendly... Read more...

Celebrating Autism Pride: History, Symbols & Community

Autism Pride is about belonging without apology. This guide shares the history of Autistic Pride Day, the meaning behind its symbols, and practical ways to celebrate, from community events to... Read more...

Autism Hats: Sensory-Friendly Style, Awareness & Identity

Autism hats are more than fashion. This in-depth guide explores their history, types, and benefits — from sensory comfort to identity and social change — while highlighting designs created by... Read more...

Demand Avoidance in Autism: What It Is, Causes & Management

If you are a parent of a child with autism, chances are you have encountered the term "demand avoidance." But what exactly is it, and how does it affect individuals... Read more...

Alexithymia and Autism: Understanding Emotions When You Can’t Feel Them Clearly

Many autistic adults live with alexithymia — a struggle to name or understand emotions. Learn why it happens, and how to reconnect with what you feel through gentle, practical strategies. Read more...

Autism vs Down Syndrome: Key Differences, Similarities & Support

Autism and Down syndrome are distinct developmental conditions with unique causes and traits. This guide explains their key differences, overlaps, and how to support individuals with compassion and clarity. Read more...

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD): Why Rejection Hurts So Deeply for Autistic Adults

Rejection can feel unbearable when you live with Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria. For autistic adults, it’s more than emotional pain — it’s the body remembering every time safety was withdrawn. This... Read more...

Autism T-Shirts: Celebrating Individuality & Raising Awareness

Discover how Autism T-Shirts empower individuals with autism and their families, and learn where to find the perfect design for yourself or a loved one. Read more...

Autism and Special Interests: Understanding the Joy, Focus, and Meaning Behind Autistic Passions

Special interests aren’t obsessions; they’re how many autistic people connect, regulate, and find meaning. This guide explores why these passions matter, how they differ from hobbies, and how honoring them... Read more...

Autism Treatment for Adults: Inclusive Approaches Beyond Labels

The phrase “high functioning autism” doesn’t capture who we are—it’s a leftover from another era. This guide challenges old labels, highlights real therapies and supports that matter, and centers autistic... Read more...

Autistic Meltdowns: Causes, Symptoms & How to Manage

What is an autistic meltdown? Learn what autistic meltdowns are, causes, symptoms and and how to effectively manage meltdowns. Read more...

Autism and Depression: When Misunderstanding Feels Like a Diagnosis

Many autistic adults are told they’re depressed when what they’re really feeling is exhaustion, grief, or burnout from trying to exist in a world that doesn’t understand them. This article... Read more...

When the World Feels Too Loud: Understanding and Calming Sensory Overload

Sensory overload happens when the world feels too loud, bright, or fast to process. This calm, autism-affirming guide explains what’s happening in your brain, how to recognize early signs, and... Read more...

What is ASD? Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & More

Learn all about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in this comprehensive guide. Understand the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and more. Read more...

Sensory Issues in Adults With Autism: Symptoms & How to Manage

Sensory issues are a core part of the autistic experience, but often misunderstood. This guide explores common triggers, calming tools, and how to feel more at peace in your day-to-day... Read more...

Autism Symptoms in Adults: Understanding the Signs

Learn how to identify common autism symptoms in adults and get a better understanding of what autism looks like in adulthood. Read more...

Signs of “High Functioning Autism” (ASD) in Adults: Traits, Symptoms & Daily Life

While terms like “high functioning autism” and “Asperger’s” are outdated, some people use them to describe autistic adults on the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with lower support needs. This guide... Read more...

Autistic Burnout 101: Signs, Symptoms, and How to Find Your Way Back

Feeling emptied out? This guide covers signs, causes, and first steps to recover from autistic burnout—so you can rebuild energy and sensory safety. Read more...

Autism Traits in Adults: Signs, Strengths, and Support

Autism doesn’t disappear in adulthood, it just looks different. This guide explains how autistic traits can show up in everyday life, why they’re often missed, and how embracing them can... Read more...

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About Our ASD Blog

HeyASD is more than a store, it’s a calm, supportive space for autistic adults and the people who care about them. Explore identity-affirming stories, sensory regulation tools, and uplifting resources from our community.

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