18. March 2026

Autism & Aphantasia: Understanding Two Invisible Experiences

Ruth Guy, Affirming Autism Director of Operations talks about the intersection between Autism and Aphantasia

Many people have heard of autism, but far fewer know about aphantasia- the inability to create mental images. What’s even less talked about is how these two experiences can overlap.

What is Aphantasia?

Aphantasia is a neurological variation where a person cannot visualise things in their mind. No mental pictures. No “mind’s eye.”

For some, this also affects:

• Internal dialogue 
• Memory recall 
• Imagination 
• Dream vividness 

Autism & Aphantasia Together

When autism and aphantasia intersect, the experience can be unique.

Some people describe: 

• Thinking in concepts instead of pictures
• Difficulty with tasks that rely on visualisation
• Strong logical or verbal thinking styles
• A different relationship with memory and imagination
• Challenges with guided meditation, visualisation exercises, or recalling faces

None of this is “wrong”, it’s simply a different cognitive landscape. 

Why Talk About It?

Because so many autistic people grow up thinking they’re “doing imagination wrong” or “not trying hard enough.” Because aphantasia is still misunderstood. Because understanding your brain can be empowering. I

If this resonates with you… You’re not alone. You’re not broken. Your mind just works differently and that difference has value. Let’s open up the conversation. Share your experiences in the comments and let’s build some understanding together.