An Autism Friendly Christmas
A mental health guide to the holidays
Author: Ivi | 2 min read
The twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and warmth of the holiday season are magical. However, Christmas is also a time when routines change, everywhere is crowded, and carols are played on repeat, making Christmas both a joyous but also overwhelming time for many Autistic people. So if you find yourself being overstimulated or needing a bit of extra self-care, you’re not alone!
Let’s delve into a simple step-by-step guide to post-Christmas recovery tailored to the unique needs of neurodivergent people, like yourself. Before you go away thinking, why bother with a “post-Christmas” plan when Christmas is yet to come? Let me explain…
Having a plan in place gives you a sense of control, something to look forward to, and most importantly it can help calm and prevent any current feelings of anxiety or overwhelm! So let’s dive into it.
1. Schedule: A Gift to Yourself
Before the holiday chaos kicks off, give yourself the ultimate present – time. Block out a few days after Christmas solely for yourself. By proactively setting aside this "me time," you gain a sense of control over your environment, making Christmas a less daunting prospect. Grab your calendar and schedule in a few days of self-care right now!
2. Stop and Breathe: Acknowledge Your Needs
The first step towards recovery is acknowledging your feelings. It's okay to feel tired, overwhelmed, or drained after the festivities. The holidays disrupt routines, create crowded environments, and bring about so many family gatherings.
Pause, take a moment to reflect on your energy levels, and simply breathe. Acknowledge the challenges you face and embrace the importance of self-reflection. Addressing sensory overload and the potential for overstimulation during Christmas is vital to your well-being.
3. Why: Identify Your Stressors
What's on your mind? Jot down a list of stressors, considering factors such as workload, personal rewards, self-talk, community, masking, and your sensory environment.
By identifying these stressors, you gain valuable insights into the root causes of your overwhelm. Remember, it's crucial to understand that feeling this way is not your fault; it's a natural response to the unique challenges the holiday season brings.
4. Acceptance: Embrace Your Unique Needs
Some stressors are beyond your control, but acknowledging them is a powerful step towards acceptance. If you're sensory sensitive or Autistic, accept these aspects of yourself with compassion. Understand your needs and behaviours, and focus on addressing stressors that you can control.
This acceptance is a foundation for self-love and understanding. You deserve to self-advocate and honour your needs and mental health!
5. Rebuild Joy: A Happy List for Recovery
Consider what truly brings you joy and relaxation. Create a 'happy list' comprising activities that genuinely recharge you. Divide these activities based on energy levels to ensure a gradual and enjoyable recovery. Embrace this time to relax, reduce commitments, and engage in activities that align with your joyful pursuits.
In essence, post-Christmas recovery for Autistic people is a personalised journey. By taking intentional steps, you can rebuild your energy, find joy in the little things, and create a space for self-care. Remember, recovery is not a race – it's an opportunity to nurture your well-being and celebrate the uniqueness that makes you, you.