At first glance, autism and EDS seem very different. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how someone communicates, processes sensory input, and experiences the world. EDS, especially the hypermobile type (hEDS), affects the body’s connective tissues. It can cause joint hypermobility, pain, fragile skin, digestive issues, and extreme fatigue.

The most common form—hypermobile EDS (hEDS)—is also the hardest to diagnose, since there’s no definitive genetic test. Many people with hEDS go years without answers, often told their symptoms are “just anxiety” or “normal growing pains.”

So why do these two conditions so often appear together?

While we don’t fully understand the connection yet, a 2018 study in Autism Research found that people with joint hypermobility were more likely to be autistic. And many autistic individuals report physical symptoms that overlap with EDS: chronic pain, sensory sensitivities that include the body (not just the environment), and difficulty sensing where their body is in space (proprioception).

Some researchers believe that shared genetics or differences in the nervous system might explain the link. Others think connective tissue differences might influence brain development and sensory integration. We don’t have all the answers yet, but the connection is becoming harder to ignore.

Unfortunately, diagnostic barriers are common. A child with joint pain and sensory overwhelm might be dismissed as dramatic. An autistic adult may struggle to explain physical pain in ways that doctors understand—especially if they mask their distress or have alexithymia (difficulty identifying feelings or body signals). People—especially women and AFAB individuals—often spend years being misunderstood or misdiagnosed.

When autism and EDS co-occur, care needs to be holistic and affirming. That means providers should recognize that chronic pain, fatigue, and sensory processing issues might all be part of one person’s experience. Treatment might involve occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychotherapy, accommodations for mobility and sensory needs, and a trauma-informed approach.

Most importantly, we need to listen to the people living this. They often know more than the professionals trying to diagnose them.

The overlap between autism and EDS isn’t rare—it’s just rarely talked about.

Annabelle Denmark (she/they), MA, LPC is a therapist based in Lakewood, CO, They specialize in trauma informed (Parts work, EMDR and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy) individual therapy for neurodivergent adults and for adults with dissociative disorders

You can find them at https://www.renegadecounseling.com

Recently, I’ve been exploring a fascinating topic during my therapy sessions: sensory sensitivity. It’s where individuals have a heightened awareness and responsiveness to sensory stimuli from their surroundings. Think of it like having the volume turned up on your senses. You can feel, hear, see, taste, and smell things more intensely than others.

I’ve always been aware of certain quirks in my sensory experiences, like how certain environments or noises make me uneasy, or how I’m drawn to tactile sensations like running my hands under flowing water or feeling different textures. But it wasn’t until I was diagnosed with ADHD and Autism that I started to piece together my sensory map and understand its significance in my life. Not only does it help in my everyday experiences, but it also reassures me that I am not just making things up and that the support I need is valid.

This journey of discovery has been eye-opening and why I choose the quote from Temple because of the subtle shift of understanding. The shift reveals more about how my sensory preferences and aversions shape my daily experiences and interactions with the world around me. It’s given me a clearer picture of who I am and how I navigate through the complexities of sensory stimuli.

Understanding my sensory sensitivities has also made me reflect on how they impact various aspects of my life, from work to relationships. It’s not always easy, especially in a world that may not fully understand or accommodate these sensitivities. But it’s taught me the importance of self-awareness and self-compassion as I learn to navigate and embrace this unique aspect of myself.

Sensory sensitivity isn’t limited to just a few people or conditions. It can manifest in various ways and affect different senses in different individuals. Some may be hypersensitive, meaning they have an exaggerated response to sensory stimuli, while others may be hyposensitive, needing more intense input to feel sensations.

For example, someone hypersensitive to sound may find everyday noises overwhelming, like the hum of fluorescent lights or the sound of footsteps. For me, this is noise sensitivity, and it hits me suddenly throughout the day. On the other hand, someone hypersensitive to touch may seek out intense physical sensations, like deep pressure or rough textures, to feel grounded or my example of running water (I love the feeling of running water on my hands).

Dealing with sensory sensitivity can significantly impact daily life. It can lead to social isolation, difficulty in tasks, and emotional challenges like frustration or anxiety. But there are ways to manage it. Creating sensory-friendly environments, using tools like noise-canceling headphones or fidget toys, and practicing relaxation techniques can all help cope with overwhelming sensations.

It’s crucial to raise awareness and foster understanding and acceptance of sensory sensitivity in society. By educating others about the challenges faced by individuals with sensory sensitivity, we can promote inclusivity and support in various settings. With the right support and accommodations, individuals with sensory sensitivity can thrive and fully participate in daily life. It’s all about embracing and celebrating the unique way each person experiences the world around them.

About the author: Deanna serves as a Counseling intern with expertise at People House. Focusing in an Emotionally focused and Internal Family System approach, she employs a strength-based perspective when working with individuals. Deanna finds fulfillment in collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds, particularly those who are neurodivergent, dealing with trauma, or facing challenges related to anxiety and depression. If you’re interested in seeking support from Deanna, feel free to contact her via email at deannaedwards@peoplehouse.org.