autism

Shivering Through the Cold: Dysautonomia, Autism, and Winter Woes

Shivering Through the Cold: Dysautonomia, Autism, and Winter Woes

magine this: a biting wind whips through the air, sending shivers down your spine. For most, it's just a fleeting discomfort, a reason to pull on a sweater. But for someone with dysautonomia, that chill can be a trigger for a cascade of symptoms. Their body struggles to regulate its internal temperature, leaving them feeling icy cold even in a heated room. Add in the sensory sensitivities of autism, and the experience of winter can become truly overwhelming.

The faintest draft can feel like an arctic blast, while the weight of a winter coat might feel unbearable. Everyday tasks like getting dressed or venturing outside become monumental challenges. It's an invisible struggle, often misunderstood by those who haven't experienced it firsthand. This winter, let's shed light on the unique challenges faced by individuals with dysautonomia and autism, and explore ways to make the season a little more bearable.

Late Autism Diagnosis: Navigating Grief, Acceptance, and Self-Empowerment

Late Autism Diagnosis: Navigating Grief, Acceptance, and Self-Empowerment

Receiving an autism diagnosis as an adult can feel like both a revelation and a challenge. For many, the journey begins with a wave of relief—finally understanding why life has felt different—but this relief is often followed by grief and anger. Questions like, “Why didn’t anyone notice sooner?” or “How much easier could life have been if I’d known?” are common.

This emotional process is natural and mirrors the stages of grief. Anger, in particular, can feel overwhelming as you grapple with missed opportunities and the years spent masking or struggling to fit societal norms. However, a late diagnosis also offers a powerful opportunity for transformation: to reframe the past, embrace your identity, and create a life that truly works for you.

As you move through this journey, you’ll find yourself transitioning from grief and acceptance to empowerment—learning to celebrate your strengths, advocate for your needs, and thrive as your authentic self.

Read the full post to explore how this process unfolds and discover strategies for navigating a late autism diagnosis.