Many parents in our position question why their autistic child is always crying. In fact it is one of the most googled questions.

Whilst it is always incredibly important to remember that every autistic child is different we have pulled together some reasons why they could be getting distressed.

Why an autistic child is always crying – basics

There are many reasons why an autistic child may cry frequently.

Autism is a neurological condition that affects the way a person processes and responds to sensory information, social cues, and communication.

This means that an autistic child may experience the world differently than neurotypical children, which can lead to distress and emotional dysregulation.

Here are some potential reasons why an autistic child may cry frequently:

Sensory overload: Autistic children may be hypersensitive to sensory input, such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures.

When they are exposed to too much sensory information at once, it can be overwhelming and cause them to become anxious, irritable, or upset.

Difficulty communicating: Many autistic children struggle with communication, whether it’s verbal or nonverbal.

They may have trouble expressing their needs or emotions, or understanding the intentions of others.

This can lead to frustration, confusion, and a sense of isolation, which may manifest as crying.

You may already have a plan in place in regard to your child’s communication but feel free to check out our articles on speech therapy and PECS.

Changes in routine or environment: Autistic children often rely on predictable routines and familiar environments to feel safe and secure.

When there are changes or disruptions to their routines, such as a new school, a different caregiver, or a change in schedule, it can be unsettling and cause anxiety.

Emotional regulation: Autistic children may have difficulty regulating their emotions, which means they may become overwhelmed by intense feelings of sadness, anger, or frustration.

This can lead to crying as a way of releasing those emotions.

Physical discomfort: Autistic children may have sensory or physical issues that cause discomfort or pain, such as gastrointestinal problems, allergies, or sensory processing disorders.

This can lead to crying as a way of expressing their discomfort.

Summary – Why an autistic child is always crying

It’s important to note that each autistic child is unique and may have different triggers for crying. Your child may fit into one or multiple of the above or they could be distressed for an entirely different reason.

If possible you could reach out to work with a healthcare professional or therapist who specialises in autism to identify the underlying causes and develop strategies for managing the child’s emotional regulation and sensory needs.