How is “time blindness” connected with autism? 

Many autistic people describe struggling with “time blindness”, difficulty sensing how much time has passed, estimating how long tasks will take, or keeping track of routines. According to NHS and NICE guidance, these challenges are closely linked to differences in executive functioning and daily living skills. 

Executive functioning and time perception 

Executive functions help us plan, organise, sequence tasks and manage time. NHS guidance notes that autistic individuals often experience difficulties in these areas, which naturally affects how time is understood and managed (NHS: autism and daily living skills). 

NICE guidelines (CG170) explain that support with planning, organisation and time management is essential for education, work and independence. These organisational challenges are a recognised clinical feature, not a character flaw. 

Time perception and cognitive processing 

Research published in BMC Psychiatry (2022) shows that autistic people often experience differences in how the brain processes time. Studies have found difficulties estimating intervals, judging duration and sequencing events. Systematic reviews (PubMed 2023), describe moderate-to-strong evidence for measurable differences in time estimation and temporal judgement. 

Executive function research published in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorder (2024) also identifies reduced cognitive flexibility, working memory, and planning, all factors that influence whether time feels predictable or manageable. It highlights these executive differences as common in autism. 

Sensory and interoceptive influences 

For many autistic people, sensory processing differences further affect how time is experienced. Sensory overload can make minutes feel like seconds, or the opposite, and can interrupt the brain’s ability to track sequences or maintain focus. Evidence summarised in The Lancet suggests that interoceptive differences (awareness of internal cues like hunger or fatigue) may contribute to time perception variability (The Lancet). 

ADHD and co-occurring conditions 

Time blindness is often more pronounced when autism co-occurs with ADHD. The ADHD and Autism Clinic notes that ADHD traits such as inattention, impulsivity and difficulty sustaining concentration can intensify challenges with judging and managing time. 

Daily impact 

These combined differences mean many autistic people find it harder to: 

• estimate how long tasks will take 

• recognise when a deadline is approaching 

• move smoothly between activities 

• stay punctual or consistent with routines 

• cope with sudden schedule changes 

WHO guidance also identifies time-management challenges as part of wider executive function differences and recommends structured planning and routine-building as supportive strategies. 

Takeaway 

Time blindness in autism is not about carelessness, it reflects well-documented differences in executive function, sensory processing and cognitive flexibility. With the right support, including structured routines and realistic time-planning strategies, daily life can feel more predictable and less overwhelming.