Reconnecting with Self: Managing Autism, OCD, and Anxiety 

The client approached Veda Rehabilitation and Wellness with longstanding concerns related to intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviours, anxiety, emotional distress, and social isolation. The client reported experiencing recurrent intrusive thoughts, particularly involving the fear of harm or negative events happening to loved ones, especially his grandmother. These thoughts were distressing, unwanted, and occurred almost daily. 

To reduce the anxiety associated with these thoughts, the client engaged in repetitive compulsive behaviours involving objects such as doorknobs, light switches, bottle caps, and body sensations. Over time, these symptoms began to interfere with his daily functioning and emotional wellbeing. 

Client Profile

A 24-year-old male presenting with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD),  and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) requiring further assessment. 

The client also reported longstanding difficulties forming and maintaining friendships, increased emotional attachment within relationships, social isolation, and feelings of being misunderstood by family members. 

 

Initial Concerns

  • Persistent intrusive thoughts involving loved ones being harmed 
  • Repetitive compulsive behaviours to reduce anxiety 
  • Difficulty forming and maintaining friendships 
  • Social isolation and loneliness 
  • Emotional attachment patterns leading to interpersonal difficulties 
  • Excessive worry and anxiety 
  • Feelings of sadness, rejection, and low self-esteem 
  • Emotional distress related to family invalidation 
  • History of self-harm during periods of significant distress 

Treatment Goals

  • Reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours 
  • Improve emotional regulation and distress tolerance 
  • Build healthier interpersonal relationships 
  • Improve social confidence and communication skills 
  • Reduce anxiety and self-critical thoughts 
  • Develop healthier coping mechanisms 
  • Improve self-understanding and self-acceptance 
  • Build a sustainable daily routine 

Approach & Methodology

 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 

CBT was introduced to help the client identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns related to anxiety, self-criticism, and interpersonal difficulties. 

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) 

ERP was incorporated to help the client gradually tolerate anxiety-provoking thoughts while reducing reliance on compulsive behaviours. 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) 

ACT was used to help the client respond differently to intrusive thoughts and uncomfortable emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them. 

Social Skills Training 

Structured interventions focused on improving communication skills, understanding social cues, building confidence, and maintaining relationships. 

Emotional Regulation & Self-Awareness 

Therapy sessions focused on understanding emotions, improving distress tolerance, and developing healthier responses to rejection, loneliness, and interpersonal challenges. 

Holistic Wellness Interventions 

The programme was supported through yoga, meditation, physical exercise, expressive arts therapy, wellness activities, and structured daily routines. 

Challenges Faced During Treatment

The client initially struggled with managing intrusive thoughts and resisting compulsive behaviours. Social situations often felt overwhelming, and previous experiences of rejection had contributed to low confidence and emotional withdrawal. 

Feelings of being misunderstood by others further intensified loneliness and emotional distress. Building emotional awareness and gradually increasing social engagement became an important part of the treatment process. 

Results & Success Indicators

  • Improved understanding of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours 
  • Better emotional regulation 
  • Improved social confidence 
  • Reduced anxiety and emotional overwhelm 
  • Increased awareness of interpersonal patterns 
  • Better coping skills for distressing emotions 
  • Improved participation in daily activities 
  • Greater self-understanding and acceptance 

Key Takeaways & Lessons Learned

This case highlighted how autism, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms can interact and significantly affect emotional wellbeing and social functioning. Addressing these concerns simultaneously through a structured and multidisciplinary approach helped the client build healthier coping strategies and improve overall functioning. 

Client Perspective

“For a long time, I felt misunderstood and alone. Learning to understand my thoughts and emotions has helped me become more accepting of myself.”

Confidentiality & Disclaimer

Anonymity Assurance: Names and identifying details have been changed or omitted to protect confidentiality. 

Medical Disclaimer: This case study is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. 

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