Social anxiety is no joke. For neurotypical folks, it’s that awkward moment at a party when you wave back at someone who wasn’t actually waving at you. For an autistic teen, it’s that moment amplified by a hundred, plus a soundtrack of overthinking and sensory overload.
This case study dives into the story of Sam (name changed for privacy), a 16-year-old with autism and social anxiety so intense it made calculus look like a walk in the park. Spoiler: Sam’s journey isn’t just inspiring—it’s a masterclass in awkward wins, hilarious setbacks, and ultimate triumph.
The Background: Meet Sam
Sam was the kind of kid who could memorize every Pokémon stat but would freeze if someone asked, “How’s your day?” Social situations felt like a battlefield, with unspoken rules that were harder to decode than hieroglyphics.
Primary Challenge: Social anxiety rooted in fear of judgment and sensory overwhelm
Strengths: A wicked sense of humor, deep empathy, and an incredible memory
Goals: Navigate high school social interactions without wanting to curl into a ball of existential dread
Step 1: Identifying the Triggers
First things first: What sent Sam’s anxiety spiraling? Through therapy sessions (and a lot of gentle nudging), we identified his triggers:
Crowded spaces (e.g., cafeterias that resemble sensory torture chambers)
Small talk (aka the seventh circle of hell)
Group projects (because working with Chad who does nothing = rage-inducing)
By breaking down these triggers, we could create a roadmap to tackle them.
Step 2: The Power of Small Wins
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is social confidence. We started with small, achievable goals:
Goal: Say “Hi” to One Classmate
The first attempt went like this:
Sam: Mumbles unintelligibly while staring at the floor
Classmate: “Uh…okay?”
But hey, progress is progress. The next day, Sam managed to make eye contact. By week two, he nailed a full “Hi.” Cue the confetti.
Step 3: Using Humor as a Shield
Sam had a sharp wit that could make even the grumpiest therapist chuckle. We encouraged him to lean into his humor:
Scenario: Group projects
Sam’s Strategy: Light-hearted self-deprecation. “I’ll take the PowerPoint—my social skills aren’t ready for brainstorming yet.”
Turns out, laughter isn’t just the best medicine—it’s a fantastic icebreaker.
Step 4: Tackling the Big One—The Cafeteria
The cafeteria was Sam’s personal Hunger Games. Loud noises, unspoken cliques, and no clear escape route? Hard pass.
The Plan:
Choose a Safe Spot: A quieter corner where he could ease in gradually.
Sensory Tools: Noise-canceling earbuds and a stress ball disguised as a “cool keychain.”
Gradual Exposure: Start with five minutes, then extend the time.
By the end of the semester, Sam was sitting with a small group of friends. Victory never tasted so sweet (or like questionable cafeteria pizza).
Step 5: Therapy: Where Magic (and Awkward Roleplays) Happen
Therapy sessions became a lab for experimenting with social scripts, coping strategies, and yes, cringe-worthy roleplays.
Example Scenario: Ordering coffee at a café
Therapist: “Pretend I’m the barista. What do you say?”
Sam: “Uh…coffee?”
Therapist: “Let’s try that again—with manners.”
Through trial, error, and a lot of laughs, Sam started to build confidence.
The Turning Point: A School Event
The ultimate test came when Sam decided to attend a school talent show. Crowds? Check. Noise? Check. A terrifying amount of social interaction? Check.
Armed with his sensory tools and newfound confidence, Sam not only survived but actually enjoyed himself. He even cracked a joke with a teacher. (Who is this kid?)
Lessons Learned
1. Progress Isn’t Linear, and That’s Okay
Sam had setbacks—days where saying “Hi” felt impossible and group projects felt like punishment. But each small victory built a foundation for bigger ones.
2. Humor is a Superpower
When in doubt, laugh. Sam’s ability to use humor turned awkward moments into opportunities for connection.
3. Support is Key
From therapy to patient teachers to understanding parents, Sam’s journey was a team effort.
The Outcome
Sam’s transformation didn’t happen overnight, but by the end of the school year, he was a different person. He wasn’t just surviving social situations—he was thriving.
He had a small but solid group of friends.
He participated in class discussions without melting into his seat.
He even started volunteering at school events.
Social anxiety didn’t disappear entirely (it rarely does), but it no longer controlled his life.
Final Thoughts
Overcoming social anxiety as an autistic teen isn’t about becoming the life of the party. It’s about finding strategies that work, building confidence, and learning to embrace the awkward moments.
If you or your child are facing similar challenges, you don’t have to do it alone. Call or text 614-470-4466, email admin@achievepsychology.org, or visit www.achievepsychology.org to learn how we can help.
Works Cited:
"Managing Social Anxiety in Teens," National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
"Supporting Autistic Students," Autism Society
"Therapeutic Strategies for Anxiety in Autism," American Psychological Association (APA)
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