Neurodiversity Advent Calendar - Day 6

Day 6 - Alexithymia

❓ What Is It ❓ 

It is a neuropsychological phenomenon that makes it difficult to identify, describe or express emotions. There is no clear diagnostic criteria but it is estimated that around 10% of the population have alexithymia.

Someone may say 'I feel tight in my chest' instead of 'I feel anxious'. People with alexithymia may also find it difficult to recognise emotion in themselves or others.

❓How can this feel ❓

Alexithymia can make the person find it challenging to emphasise with others or engage in conversations about emotions and feelings and they can feel disconnected to emotions.

❓ What's the big deal❓ 

People with this condition tend to focus on external details not emotions and rely on logic and analytical thinking. As they struggle to identify and describe emotions it can lead to them feeling frustrated or confused.

It may be difficult in the workplace under stress or pressure to recognise the emotions and could have a negative impact on mental health.

🌟 Notable people with Alexithymia

Sir Anthony Hopkins

Alyson Stoner

Studies show that alexithymia can be prevalent in people with Autism and it's estimated that 1 in 5 of individuals with autism also have alexithymia 🧮 

Come back tomorrow for the next and see if you've heard of all 20!

Why not follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipa-nicholson/ and ring my bell so you don't miss one?

For the most comprehensive Awareness Workshops for your staff and leaders - drop me a message, let's chat 🤙