Feeling really helpless and overwhelmed rn, anyone have any tips on how to soothe that?

[softbunnysunshine]

Currently going through some stuff I don’t want to discuss with my family, really difficult for me right now and I’m freaking out. As an autistic person too it’s very hard to comprehend and come to terms with my feelings right now so I’m just overwhelmed. Anyone have tips?

[MasterPhotog]

2 hours ago, softbunnysunshine said:

Currently going through some stuff I don’t want to discuss with my family, really difficult for me right now and I’m freaking out. As an autistic person too it’s very hard to comprehend and come to terms with my feelings right now so I’m just overwhelmed. Anyone have tips?

@softbunnysunshine

First off, it' s okay to feel overwhelmed and to not involve your family if you prefer and if that  makes you feel comfortable.  Here are some steps you might find helpful:

1.  Create a Safe Space
   - Dedicate a quiet, comfortable space where you can process your thoughts without external pressure.
   - Use sensory aids like noise-cancelling headphones, weighted blankets, or dim lighting to calm yourself.

2. Write It Down
   - Journaling can help you untangle your thoughts. Write about what’s bothering you and how you’re feeling.
   - If verbal expression is challenging, try using bullet points, drawings, or mind maps.

3. Break It Into Smaller Steps
   - Identify the specific aspects of the issue. Tackling one thing at a time can make it feel less overwhelming.
   - Use a checklist to track your progress and feel a sense of accomplishment with each step.

4. Find Trusted Alternatives for Support
   - Seek support from friends, mentors, or online communities where you feel understood.
   - Specialised forums or support groups for autistic individuals can provide a sense of connection and practical advice.

5. Regulate Overload
   - Use grounding techniques like deep breathing, sensory input, or focusing on a soothing object to reduce anxiety.
   - Schedule downtime to recover from sensory or emotional overload.

6. Use Scripts for Stressful Situations
   - If you anticipate having to deal with others, prepare phrases or responses in advance to reduce stress.

7. Seek Professional Guidance
   - Consider reaching out to a therapist or counsellor, ideally someone experienced with autism. They can help you navigate complex emotions and situations.

8. Set Boundaries
   - It’s okay to say no or take time for yourself if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
   - Communicate boundaries clearly and consistently.

Feel free to reach out if you need further assistance. 

[softbunnysunshine]

27 minutes ago, MasterPhotog said:

@softbunnysunshine

First off, it' s okay to feel overwhelmed and to not involve your family if you prefer and if that  makes you feel comfortable.  Here are some steps you might find helpful:

1.  Create a Safe Space
   - Dedicate a quiet, comfortable space where you can process your thoughts without external pressure.
   - Use sensory aids like noise-cancelling headphones, weighted blankets, or dim lighting to calm yourself.

2. Write It Down
   - Journaling can help you untangle your thoughts. Write about what’s bothering you and how you’re feeling.
   - If verbal expression is challenging, try using bullet points, drawings, or mind maps.

3. Break It Into Smaller Steps
   - Identify the specific aspects of the issue. Tackling one thing at a time can make it feel less overwhelming.
   - Use a checklist to track your progress and feel a sense of accomplishment with each step.

4. Find Trusted Alternatives for Support
   - Seek support from friends, mentors, or online communities where you feel understood.
   - Specialised forums or support groups for autistic individuals can provide a sense of connection and practical advice.

5. Regulate Overload
   - Use grounding techniques like deep breathing, sensory input, or focusing on a soothing object to reduce anxiety.
   - Schedule downtime to recover from sensory or emotional overload.

6. Use Scripts for Stressful Situations
   - If you anticipate having to deal with others, prepare phrases or responses in advance to reduce stress.

7. Seek Professional Guidance
   - Consider reaching out to a therapist or counsellor, ideally someone experienced with autism. They can help you navigate complex emotions and situations.

8. Set Boundaries
   - It’s okay to say no or take time for yourself if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
   - Communicate boundaries clearly and consistently.

Feel free to reach out if you need further assistance. 

Thank you lots for this and the invite!! I appreciate it very very much 💕

[MasterPhotog]

1 minute ago, softbunnysunshine said:

Thank you lots for this and the invite!! I appreciate it very very much 💕

You're very welcome! Thank you for being a part of The Light House Circle -TLC.
Please take care and stay strong!

[thatguy89]

I find making sure I am physically OK is important.  I've eaten something,  not dehydrated,  done need a nap etc.  The advice above is really good. Talking to someone can help,  as long as they are willing to listen and not talk over you trying to fix the problem. 

Edited December 19, 2024 by thatguy89
Misspelled words

[beanbean]

10 hours ago, softbunnysunshine said:

Currently going through some stuff I don’t want to discuss with my family, really difficult for me right now and I’m freaking out. As an autistic person too it’s very hard to comprehend and come to terms with my feelings right now so I’m just overwhelmed. Anyone have tips?

Find someone that you can talk too doesn’t have to be family or you can always write  down what your feeling down like in a journal and see if that helps 

[Dangerously_Well]

It sounds like you're going through a really tough time. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, especially when things are hard to understand. Remember, you're not alone in this. There are people who care about you and want to help.

Here are a few things that might help you cope:

 * Find a safe space: Is there a quiet place in your home where you can go to de-stress? Maybe your bedroom or a comfy corner? Make it your own with soft blankets, pillows, and things that make you feel good.

 * Sensory comforts: Since you're autistic, sensory experiences might be extra helpful. Try listening to calming music, using a weighted blanket, or playing with a fidget toy.

 * Reach out to your support system: Even if you don't want to talk about the specific stuff with your family, is there someone you trust who you can just be with? Sometimes having someone there to listen or offer a hug can make a big difference.

 * Gentle self-care: Don't put too much pressure on yourself right now. Focus on the basics: try to eat something healthy, get some rest, and do things that usually make you happy, even if it's just for a little while.

 * Professional help: If you feel like you're really struggling, please consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor. They can provide a safe space for you to talk about your feelings and help you develop coping strategies.

Remember, it's okay to not be okay. Be kind to yourself, take things one day at a time, and know that things will eventually get better. Sending you big hugs and positive vibes.

[softbunnysunshine]

48 minutes ago, beanbean said:

Find someone that you can talk too doesn’t have to be family or you can always write  down what your feeling down like in a journal and see if that helps 

I’ve been looking, I don’t have one person in my irl life though besides my dad, mom and brother who are all really abusive. They’ve isolated me for this exact reason.

[beanbean]

27 minutes ago, softbunnysunshine said:

I’ve been looking, I don’t have one person in my irl life though besides my dad, mom and brother who are all really abusive. They’ve isolated me for this exact reason.

I would always be up to talk to you and listening if it would help 

[softbunnysunshine]

1 hour ago, beanbean said:

I would always be up to talk to you and listening if it would help 

Aweee thank you, I won’t put that burden on you but I truly do appreciate you for that. ♥️

[beanbean]

27 minutes ago, softbunnysunshine said:

Aweee thank you, I won’t put that burden on you but I truly do appreciate you for that. ♥️

Would never be a burden 

[softbunnysunshine]

10 minutes ago, beanbean said:

Would never be a burden 

Thank you, I’d definitely like to chat sometime then