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Autistic mothers

NAS96233

Hi 

I  wondered if any autistic mums here could share some tips and advice for dealing with their own sensory overload whilst parenting. All the information I can find online is about helping autistic children as a parent but not how to help yourself if you as an autistic parent are struggling. I'm terrified my daughter is also autistic and I won't be able to help her properly because I'm struggling to regulate myself so any tips from anyone would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

  • Yes, it is hard. Hard for me additionally, because I have no time for my interests. I take breaks when I feel it starts shaking me from inside. Otherwise I start crying hysterically or even head banging. For me the only solutions are - breaks and earplugs for playing with daughter. She is not autistic for sure.

  • Hi and welcome to the community!

    You might find it helpful to check out the resources offered by Autistic Parents UK, whose resources include: peer support via both Facebook and Discord; facilitated groups; and one-on-one support:

    "Autistic Parents UK CIO was founded in 2020 by Autistic parents seeking connection and support, born from a deep understanding of the unique challenges Autistic individuals face while navigating parenthood. We are the only national, Autistic-led charity offering essential support services, resources, education and a thriving community for Autistic parents."

    Autistic Parents UK

  • this makes so much sense - you’re not alone. I don’t have the answers but I can relate to feeling sensory overload and overwhelm. I feel like my regulation and kids regulation are connected really closely - managing masking is something I’ve been thinking about recently.

    i remember a phase when my kids would clamber all over me like I was a climbing frame - deep breaths…that was horrorendous!

    I guess If you’re daughters autistic (mine may be) it’s an incentive to sort our relationship to autism out , trust it’s ok for it to be a rocky road?  And that you’ll find your equilibrium and she can learn from your perspectives and experience?