Protecting my autistic kids from their grandparent!

Hey readers, 

Parenting comes with its own set of challenges, and when you add the complexities of raising children with autism into the mix, the journey becomes even more nuanced.

One of the tough decisions I've had to make is restricting my autistic kids' interaction with their grandparents due to concerns of physical and emotional abuse stemming from a lack of understanding about autism.

Autism is a spectrum, and each child's experience with it is unique. 

Unfortunately, not everyone comprehends the intricacies of autism, and, in the case of my children's grandparents, their disbelief in the condition has created an environment that I deem unsafe for my kids.

The disbelief in autism isn't merely a difference of opinion; it translates into a lack of acceptance and understanding of my children's challenges.

 This lack of acknowledgement can lead to harmful situations where my kids are subjected to treatment that doesn't accommodate their needs.

 Whether it's disregarding sensory sensitivities or misinterpreting communication struggles, the potential for physical and emotional harm is a constant worry.

Autistic individuals often require specialised support and understanding. 

Grandparents who don't believe in autism might unintentionally dismiss or trivialise the challenges my kids face.

 

This dismissal can manifest in frustration, impatience, or even disciplinary actions that aren't tailored to the unique needs of neurodivergent children.

Protecting my children's emotional well-being is paramount. Exposing them to an environment where they are not understood or accepted can lead to profound emotional distress. 

Children with autism can be more vulnerable to anxiety and depression, and subjecting them to situations where their needs are invalidated can exacerbate these challenges. 

As a parent, my responsibility is to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters their emotional growth and resilience.

The decision to limit contact with grandparents isn't taken lightly. It's a painful choice that stems from a deep concern for my children's safety and well-being. 

While I recognise the significance of the grandparent-grandchild relationship, prioritising my kids' needs and protecting them from potential harm takes precedence.

Communication has been a pivotal component in navigating this delicate situation.

 I've attempted to engage in open and honest conversations with the grandparents, hoping to bridge the gap of understanding. 

Unfortunately, if the foundational belief in autism's legitimacy is absent, it becomes challenging to foster a dialogue that can lead to positive change.

It's essential to highlight that this decision is not about withholding love or creating divisions within the family. 

Rather, it's a strategy born out of a parent's responsibility to shield their children from harm. 

As a parent, advocating for my children's well-being sometimes means making tough choices that others may not fully comprehend.

In conclusion, the decision to limit my autistic kids' interaction with their grandparents is a painful but necessary step to protect them from potential physical and emotional harm. 

Autism is a reality that demands acknowledgement and understanding, and when these foundations are absent, it becomes crucial to prioritise the safety and emotional well-being of my children. 

While challenging, this decision stems from a deep commitment to creating an environment that supports and uplifts my kids as they navigate the unique complexities of autism.

Cheers for reading X

Autism and masking in school

Hey readers,

For many students with autism, the school environment can be both a place of learning and a space where they navigate the intricate art of masking.

 Masking, the act of concealing one's true thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to fit in socially, is a coping mechanism that many individuals on the autism spectrum adopt to navigate social situations. 

In this blog post, we'll explore the concept of masking in the school context, its impact, and the importance of creating inclusive environments.

Understanding Masking.

Masking involves consciously or unconsciously suppressing one's true self to conform to societal norms and expectations. While this strategy can help individuals with autism blend in and interact more easily, it comes at a cost.

 Masking can lead to mental and emotional exhaustion, heightened anxiety, and a disconnection from one's authentic identity.

Masking at School.

The school environment presents numerous social challenges that may encourage masking behaviour:

1. Social Expectations: School settings come with a multitude of unspoken social rules that individuals with autism might struggle to grasp intuitively.

2. Peer Interactions: Navigating peer relationships, group activities, and small talk can be overwhelming for students with autism.

3. Classroom Dynamics: The fast-paced nature of lessons, transitions, and classroom discussions can be difficult to keep up with, leading to masking to avoid standing out.

4. Sensory Overload: The sensory-rich school environment can exacerbate sensory sensitivities, leading students to mask their discomfort to avoid drawing attention.

Impact of Masking.

While masking can serve as a valuable tool for social adaptation, it has potential drawbacks:

1. Mental and Emotional Strain: Constantly suppressing one's true self can lead to stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion.

2. Delayed Identification: Masking might delay the identification of autism in some individuals, as they appear to be coping well in social situations.

3. Misunderstanding: Others may fail to recognize the challenges faced by students who mask, leading to a lack of support or accommodations.

4. Self-Acceptance: Over time, the act of masking can erode an individual's sense of self and hinder their journey towards self-acceptance. 

Creating an Inclusive Environment.

1. Educate Students and Staff: Raise awareness about autism and the concept of masking among students, teachers, and staff to foster empathy and understanding.

2. Offer Choice: Provide students with autism the choice to engage in social interactions at a pace that feels comfortable to them.

3. Designated Safe Spaces: Offer designated quiet spaces where students can retreat when sensory overload becomes overwhelming.

4. Embrace Neurodiversity: Celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives of all students, promoting a culture of inclusivity and acceptance.

Supporting Authenticity.

Recognizing the complex dance of masking in school is crucial to supporting the well-being and academic success of students with autism.

 By creating an environment that values authenticity and acknowledges the diverse ways individuals experience the world, we pave the way for a more compassionate and inclusive educational journey.

Cheers for reading X

Exploring the complex factors that influence Autism Spectrum Disorder

 Hey readers. 

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that has intrigued scientists, researchers, and parents alike for decades. 

While the exact cause of autism remains a topic of ongoing research, it's clear that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors contributes to the development of this complex disorder.

In this blog post, we delve into the multifaceted nature of what causes autism and shed light on some of the key factors at play.

Genetic Influences.

Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of autism. 

Research indicates that there are multiple genes involved, each contributing a small risk. 

While specific genes have been identified that are linked to autism, it's important to note that genetics alone cannot fully explain the diversity of ASD symptoms.

 It's more likely that a combination of genetic variations, along with other factors, contributes to the disorder.

Environmental Factors.

1. Prenatal Environment.

Studies suggest that prenatal factors may play a role in autism. 

Maternal health, exposure to certain infections, and maternal stress during pregnancy have been explored as potential influences.

2. Early Brain Development.

Abnormalities in brain development during the early stages of pregnancy may contribute to the development of autism.

 This includes disruptions in neural connectivity and differences in brain structure.

3. Exposure to Environmental Agents.

Some research has explored the potential impact of exposure to certain environmental agents, such as air pollution or pesticides, on the risk of autism.

 However, more research is needed to establish a clear link.

Neurological Factors.

1. Neural Connectivity.

 Individuals with autism may exhibit differences in neural connectivity and processing. These differences can impact social interactions, communication, and sensory experiences.

2. Neurodevelopmental Factors.

 The brain undergoes complex developmental processes during early childhood. 

Disruptions or differences in these processes can contribute to the emergence of autism traits.

Risk Factors.

Certain factors may increase the risk of autism, but they do not directly cause the condition:

1. Advanced Parental Age.

Research suggests a higher risk of autism in children born to older parents.

2. Sibling History.

 Families with one child with autism have a slightly increased risk of having another child with autism.

The Complexity of Autism.

It's important to emphasize that autism is not caused by a single factor.

 Instead, it's the result of a complex interplay between genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and neurological processes. 

No single cause can explain the wide range of experiences and symptoms observed within the autism spectrum.

Ongoing Research.

The field of autism research is dynamic and continually evolving.

 Scientists are working diligently to unravel the intricate puzzle of autism's origins, searching for more precise answers about its causes and potential risk factors. 

As our understanding grows, so too will our ability to provide support, interventions, and resources for individuals and families affected by autism.

Autism remains a multifaceted condition with no one-size-fits-all explanation for its causes. 

Genetic, environmental, and neurological factors all contribute to the complex tapestry that is autism spectrum disorder. 

As we move forward, continued research will provide valuable insights into the origins of autism and, ultimately, contribute to more effective strategies for diagnosis, intervention, and support.

Cheers for reading X 

Understanding Autism and sleep

Hey readers, 

Sleep is a vital aspect of our lives, offering rejuvenation and restoration for both the body and mind.

 However, for individuals on the autism spectrum, the journey to a peaceful night's sleep can be a challenging one. 

In this blog post, we delve into the connection between autism and sleep difficulties. 

Shedding light on the factors that contribute to these challenges and exploring strategies to promote better sleep for those affected.

The Link between Autism and Sleep Difficulties.

Sleep difficulties are commonly observed in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affecting both children and adults. 

These challenges can manifest in various ways, including:

1. Difficulty Falling Asleep.

Individuals with autism might struggle to fall asleep due to heightened sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or racing thoughts.

2. Frequent Night Awakenings.

 Interrupted sleep patterns are common, where individuals wake up multiple times during the night and struggle to return to sleep.

3. Irregular Sleep Schedule.

 Autism can lead to irregular sleep schedules, with individuals going to bed and waking up at inconsistent times.

4. Early Morning Awakening.

 Some individuals with autism wake up very early in the morning and are unable to go back to sleep, leading to insufficient rest.

5. Sleep-Related Behaviours.

 Repetitive behaviours or stimming can interfere with sleep, making it challenging for individuals to relax and drift into slumber.

Factors Contributing to Sleep Difficulties.

Several factors contribute to the sleep difficulties experienced by individuals with autism:

 * Sensory Sensitivities - sensory challenges, such as sensitivity to light, sound, or touch, can make falling and staying asleep difficult.

* Anxiety and Overstimulation - anxiety and overstimulation can lead to racing thoughts and increased arousal, making it challenging to wind down for sleep.

* Communication Difficulties - communication challenges may prevent individuals from expressing their needs or discomfort related to sleep.

* Routines and Predictability- individuals with autism often thrive on routines and predictability. 

Any disruption to their routine can impact their ability to fall asleep.

* Medical Conditions - some medical conditions commonly associated with autism, such as gastrointestinal issues or epilepsy, can contribute to sleep disturbances.

Ways to promote better sleep in individuals with autism. 

* Establish a Consistent Routine - creating a structured daily routine helps signal to the body when it's time to wind down and sleep.

* Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment - make the bedroom a sensory-friendly space by minimizing distractions, using blackout curtains, and adjusting lighting and noise levels.

* Wind Down Before Bed - engage in calming activities before bedtime, such as reading a book, practising deep breathing, or taking a warm bath.

* Limit Screen Time - the blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin. Limit screen time before bedtime.

Consult a Specialist if sleep difficulties persist, consult a healthcare professional or sleep specialist who has experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum.

Understanding the complex interplay between autism and sleep difficulties is crucial for providing the necessary support and strategies to improve sleep quality.

 By recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism and tailoring interventions to their needs, we can pave the way for more restful nights and improved overall well-being.

Cheers for reading X 

What are some common Autism traits.

 Hey readers,

Autism is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts and perceives the world. There is no single way to be autistic.

Some common traits or characteristics are.

 

* Finding it hard to understand what others are thinking or feeling.

* Getting very anxious about social situations.

* Finding it hard to make friends or preferring to be on your own.

* Seeming blunt, rude or not interested in others without meaning to.

* Finding it hard to say how you feel.

*Taking things very literally – for example, not understanding sarcasm or phrases like "break a leg".

* Having the same routine every day and getting very anxious if it changes.

* Noticing small details, patterns, smells or sounds that others do not.

* Having a very keen interest in certain subjects or activities.

 * Liking to plan things carefully before doing them.

* Having difficulty with reading comprehension, fine motor skills or attention span.

* Being hyper- or hypo-reactive to sensory input, such as avoiding eye contact, getting too close to other people, or getting very upset if someone touches or gets too close to you.

Autism can sometimes be different in women and men. Autistic women may have learned to hide signs of autism to ‘fit in’ - by copying people who don’t have autism, be quieter and hide their feelings, appear to cope better with social situations, or show fewer signs of repetitive behaviours.

Autism is not a disease. It is a natural variation of human diversity. Autistic people have strengths and challenges, just like anyone else. They may need extra support in some areas of life, but they can also contribute positively to society with their unique perspectives and talents.

If you think you may be autistic, you can see a GP or a health professional to get diagnosed. Getting diagnosed can help you get any extra support you might need.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects communication and behaviour. People with ASD have difficulty with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours.

Here are some of the most common autism traits:

Social communication and interaction: People with ASD may have difficulty understanding and responding to social cues, such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. They may also have difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations, and they may not understand or respond to humour.

Restricted or repetitive behaviours: People with ASD may engage in repetitive behaviours, such as hand flapping, rocking, or lining up objects. They may also have a strong interest in certain objects or topics, and they may become upset if these objects or topics are changed.

Sensory sensitivities: People with ASD may be sensitive to certain sounds, smells, tastes, textures, or light. They may also have difficulty processing sensory information, which can lead to problems with attention and learning.

Learning and attention: People with ASD may have difficulty learning new things, especially in social situations. They may also have problems paying attention, which can make it difficult for them to complete tasks.

It is important to note that not all people with ASD will have all of these traits. The severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person.

If you are concerned that your child or someone you know may have ASD, it is important to talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help improve the quality of life for people with ASD.

Here are some additional signs of autism in children and adults:

Children:

* Avoids eye contact.

* Does not respond to name.

* Does not show facial expressions.

* Does not play interactive games.

* Does not share interests.

* Does not point to show you something interesting.

* Does not notice when others are hurt or upset.

Adults:

* Finds it hard to understand what others are thinking or feeling.

* Gets very anxious about social situations.

* Finds it hard to make friends or prefers to be on their own.

* Seems blunt, rude or not interested in others without meaning to.

* Finds it hard to say how they feel.

* Takes things very literally.

* Has the same routine every day and gets very anxious if it changes.

* Notices small details, patterns, smells or sounds that others do not.

* Has a very keen interest in certain subjects or activities.

If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have autism, it is important to talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help improve the quality of life for people with ASD.

Cheers for reading X

How to show respect to a person with autism.

Hey readers, 

Autism is a condition that impairs a person's capacity for interaction and communication. 

People with autism frequently experience prejudice from society. Given the societal conventions surrounding autism, it is pretty simple for non-autistic people to internalise ableism towards autistic persons.

 Fortunately, it is possible to overcome these prejudices and develop a tolerance for autistic people, which will be discussed in this post. 

1. Recognise any biases you have. 

Recognise any factors that may be influencing your prejudice against autistic persons.

 Is it a result of the environment you're in? Have you ever met someone who has autism? Unaware of it, many people internalise the information they are exposed to. 

You need to be aware of your bias, even if you don't mean any harm.
What comes to mind when you think about autistic people? Is it a result of generalisations you may have heard?

It's critical to determine whether you have internalised ableism because it frequently has roots in other prejudices.

2. Be respectful. 

Recognise that you might be acting in ways that an autistic person might find uncomfortable. Numerous autistic people experience sensory problems due to various sounds, sensations, tastes, or sights. 

Don't do something if someone in your life, whether autistic or not, informs you that it makes them uncomfortable, such as loud noises like chewing and slurping, which might exacerbate sensory problems.

 Don't take it personally if someone leaves the room or finds another solution, like putting on headphones if they've made it apparent that a sound is triggering their sensory issues.

Don't make things obvious. Many autistic individuals use repetitive habits as a calming technique. 

Don't make a big deal out of something an autistic person does that you find weird.

These mannerisms include things like humming, tapping their foot, and back-and-forth swaying.
Inform them formally if they are creating a commotion. 

Later, don't make a big deal out of it.

Pay attention to them. A special interest, sometimes known as a subject of particular enthusiasm, is something that many autistic individuals share.

 Do not minimise them for their hobbies if they choose to discuss them.
Don't be harsh about it if it isn't a good time to talk! You don't want to discredit somebody for having strong opinions.

3. Educate yourself. 

Find out more about autism. Due to its extreme complexity, autism is frequently referred to as a spectrum disorder.

 Understanding how people with autism experience it is essential because no two autistic persons are alike.

Take care when choosing your sources. Since there is a lot of misunderstanding about autism, it's crucial to use resources from nonprofits and organisations that concentrate primarily on autism.

 Don't go to Autism Speaks. Look for sources written by autistic people!
Speak to those who are autistic in your life. 

Inquire of anyone you know who has ASD about their experiences. It's a lot simpler to understand that persons with autism are much like everyone else when you can interact with one in person.

Consider how you can assist them more effectively! It's crucial to help them just like you would any of your friends, whether lending a sympathetic ear about issues related to their disease or simply treating them like any other person.

Don't just approach someone with autism and ask them about it. If you are close enough to someone to be able to ask about their experience with the disease, only do so.

Cheers for reading X

I like repetition!

Hey readers,

I like repetition (unless I'm in an ADHD one where I am being reckless), but I would say my kind is more autistic, or it is currently.

As we know, though, life is not linear, it is messy, and things change... Boo!!!

I was thinking in bed one night as I often do that; omg, soon my eldest, who is 11, will quickly hit puberty, and I will have to deal with changes in hormones etc. I'm scared because, once again, it is not under my control. 

It is something that I will have to wait until the time comes. I can somewhat prepare, but no need for definite because I won't know how my son will react to puberty plus, add to the mix, he has autism, so this shall be fun (I jest).

I have lost my train of thought and don't know what I am getting at. I want to write about repetition and being autistic. 

I like repetition most of the time unless I get hit with boredom due to god dame adhd.

Repetition, to me, is comfort. I know what to expect from the situation as I have gone through it over and over again. 

It is not new that we have to guess how to behave. Repetition comes with less anxiety as I know how to respond and what to get compared to the latter, which filled me with dread. 

I will admit I am a control freak, and I am on edge when not knowing what is to come because I have to guess or do something wrong. 

I also like to get it right, and if I don't, I torture myself with hatred because, once again, I have failed.

Failure is my old friend, and I experience it often, being autistic and getting the cues or not saying the right thing or not saying anything at all.

I like repetition because I know I have done it before and know what to expect.

It is emotionally draining when you constantly fail, time and time again. 

You lie awake in bed and dread getting up the following day, not knowing what to do or what is happening.

Repetition is comforting because, though at times tedious, you know what to expect and are less likely to fail because you're more prone to practice masking how to perform.

The problem with being an autistic parent has to deal with new situations and developments. 

Luckily, I have my husband, who is good with the social side, as I am terrible. I dread thinking of the next instalment thinking. 

Yes, I got through one stage of development, which is a good thing, and then the fest comes as it is all new, and I wonder once again how the hell you will get through it...

Cheers for reading X 

Autism and Christmas

Hey readers,

In this post I want to talk about how Christmas affects me in relation to my autism.

 I am not very good with changes and I always see Christmas as a massive change. It doesent matter whehter it is  good or bad it is still change and something that I have to deal with every year, well until I am dead of course.

Now don’t get me wrong some elements of Christmas I enjoy such as seeing how special Christmas is for chrildren.

 I do love seeing how my children are happy although my eldest as he is getting older and has autism is starting to struggles as well more and more. 

I like Christmas day when going for a walk when it is eerie dead I enjoy; it seems not real as where I live am a city. 

Living in a city means it is always busy but on Christmas day it is silent or very, very, very quiet. which I am not going to moan because I actually enjoy it.

One area of Christmas I struggle with is gift opening as I get sensory overload, after presents are handed out I feel sick because it is something that I am not used to. As it is new I have to look at things in great detail and that is mentally exhausting for me.

One thing that is difficult is change to my routine because everything seems unusual during the festive period. 

However, to help deal with sticking to some routine and change I use a diary to write down what is happening.  I also do a relaxed schedule on Christmas day just to help me keep calm. 

I struggle with having nothing happening so I make sure I schedule stuff in such as giving my boys a bath or going to the park/walk. The last one helps me because I get fresh air and clears my head of so much disruption with toys etc. everywhere.

Another thing I am not very good at is people coming round unannounced. As my husband just casual about these kind of things and says to people he knows just pop round. 

I don’t want to be a pain and appreciate he has social needs just as much as my own needs. So, he can have social gatherings, I do stay for a period but sometimes I need some time alone because it gets chaotic. 

This also helps my autistic son; he normally comes with me for some time out on the bed in the dark, which for me with fewer stimuli around gives my brain a break.

Over the years when it comes to Christmas decorations me and my husband has come to an agreement where my bedroom has no ceiling decorations.

 I don’t like ceiling decorations they make me feel  claustrophobic so as long as I have a safe space which is my bedroom where I go when I need a break that is what works for us in my home. 

My autistic son loves the ceiling decorations so just shows you that autism affects people in different ways. 

I always have vivid memories of being a child and hating those ceiling decorations and now it makes total sense for how I felt which at the time when I didn’t know about autism it was difficult to get my head around.

Cheers for reading X

How to calm an autistic person down when they are anxious.

 Hey readers

With autism comes a lot of sensory information whether that be good or bad but sometimes it can be the latter. It can be too much and we autistic people need help because we can get so overwhelmed that it can consume us that we forget the steps to get back to a normal level of calmness within our mind. 

That is why it is good if we have some supportive people in our lives that can understand some techniques and that is why I have thought of five things that for as well being autistic has benefited me and think that may help other fellow autistic people out there.

1. The shame of a meltdown. 

The shame that follows a meltdown can be devastating. At times I think that getting over the meltdown is worse than actually having it. I feel so ashamed that I’ve ended up crying or yelling in public. I hate that I’m this way.

Having meltdowns is, for many, part of having autism. Although someone can make an effort to avoid triggers and manage emotional regulation, they should also recognize that it’s not their fault that a relatively slight upset, or simply being in a place where their senses are overloaded, can lead to a meltdown.

2. Words. 

Use few words because too much information can be unbearable as the autistic person has enough to deal with and process. Adding more information into the process can be another trigger and at times can make the situation worse. Sometimes just staying calm can be enough help for an autistic individual. 

3. A plan. 

A plan is always beneficial especially if the autistic person is going to someone new before. Just knowing that they can escape a situation at any time can help calm their anxiety down. Also, knowing what to expect and having a routine doesn't have to be strict but some sort of outline can be of benefit and can reduce the anxiety of the individual. 

4. Comforts. 

Of course like anyone autistic people are different so find what comforts them whether it be a good book they enjoy, a game, or an evening hiding in a dark place with their headphones on to help calm them down. Maybe fidget toys help them when they are anxious or having a meltdown, little comforts go a long way for someone with autism. 

5. Stimming. 

Let autistic people stim safely as much as they need to. Stimming is a series of repetitive movements that are calming mechanisms for autistic people. Examples of stimming include hand flapping, finger flicking, and rocking. Stimming is a crucial self-calming mechanism during emotional distress. 

Cheers for reading X 

Autism and things I cannot live without.

Hey readers,

This post is all about the things that help a little to make my life a bit more manageable with dealing with being autistic in a neurotypical world. Some of the things have helped calm me down when I am emotional trauma, changed or uncertain.

 It doesn't have to be big or fancy but it is enough to have an impact on my mood and calm me down when I most need it.

6 things that help make my autistic life more manageable.

1. Noise-cancelling headphones.

I am not talking about the headphones kids wear (though they are good) I wear the ones that drown out all the noise and I can also listen to music or podcasts. 

This has helped me when I am out and about in supermarkets or need to get somewhere on public transport. I can switch off into my little universe when I get overstimulated with the noise, business and lights.

 I can zone out and gives me a pause to just chill and rebalance my senses again as it were. Having this opportunity to take time out from the outside world by putting headphones on means can help reduce the risk of having a meltdown as I don’t like them, especially in public places as I hate attention on myself and very private person when it comes to emotional stuff so much prefer to scream some quiet away from everyone.

2. Google Maps.

Google maps for me are a godsend before this was available on phones I used to hate going anywhere new or didn’t know that was familiar to me as I would get lost and get very anxious. 

Having Google maps give me the security blanket of knowing where to go, and what buses to catch and not worrying if I do get lost. It means I can explore more like taking my kids to a new park without fear as much, I still get anxious, but I can analyse where we are and work out where to go on the map. 

Although when I do get too anxious I still can't manage to read the instructions but have learnt to take myself away from the noisy environment to allow myself time to calm down to work it out or if ever a situation got too much for me to handle I do have my husband who has a car or there is an uber, so I always have a plan b which again gives that security so feel less anxious because whatever happens it can be resolved one way or another.

3. My bed.

It is my safe space for when I am feeling scared or want to shut down I like to escape there and hide in the corner away from it all. It is where I go to relax and wind down, I want to put my headphones on and listen to music or read a book. I like it when I have my window open and the breeze flows around me. 

4. Lava lamp/fairy lights. 

I love low lighting and moving lights, it calms me down and hence why I have included my lava lamp and fairy lights. They just bring a relaxing ambience to my room and help calm me down and help especially when I am having a meltdown. 

5. YouTube visual aid. 

I love visual aids from moving colours to train journeys anything that calms me down and relaxes me. I find YouTube videos great for resources which are free to use. 

6. My Husband.

My husband is a massive help in a lot of ways and makes it much easier for everyday situations to fill in complex forms and meetings. 

Cheers for reading X