The Psychology of Autistic Loneliness

Talk Description: Ever feel lonely even in a room full of people? For many autistic adults, social interaction can feel exhausting, misunderstood, or surface-level. In this session, we’ll explore why that happens ... from masking and chronic misunderstandings to the gap between who we are and who others think we are. We’ll talk about deep connection, emotional and social loneliness, and how subtle differences in communication can leave us feeling unseen. I’ll share my experiences, and there’ll be space for you to reflect and connect too, (because sometimes the best way to feel less alone is realising you’re not the only one) 💜 Session Goals & Outcomes: – Feel seen and validated by a supportive, like-minded community – Gain tools to navigate emotional regulation, self-esteem, and masking – Begin building a more authentic, self-compassionate identity – Reconnect with the parts of yourself that were never “too much”—just misunderstood 🎤 Facilitator Bio: Elena Carroll – Late-Diagnosed Autistic Advocate & Peer Facilitator Elena Carroll is a late-diagnosed autistic adult who spent years trying to “fit in” before learning to truly understand herself. Her diagnosis sparked a personal revolution—one that included identity healing, community-building, and redefining her own worth outside of societal expectations. Elena creates spaces that feel warm, real, and rooted in lived experience. Through her writing, social media presence, and now peer support groups, she’s helping others process their neurodivergent discovery journey and find strength through self-understanding. Elena recently relocated across continents and is currently working on her first book while continuing to build a life she once thought was out of reach. Follow Elena YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elenacarr0ll Instagram: @elenacarr0ll TikTok: @elena__carroll