Low Arousal and Autism (part two)

A 'Low Arousal' approach to Autism? What does it mean? An article in four parts.

This is the second bit of a four part article exploring the concept of a "low arousal approach" to autism. I'm going to focus this time on the physical and sensory environment - it's a key component to our four-cornered model for low arousal support.

If you saw part one then you'll know that the four components of the model are:-

• Communication
• Environment
• Support
• Activity

So why is environment so important for folks on the spectrum? And how can we make sure we are meeting needs?

The sensory aspects of things can drive you nuts if you have the super-sensory system that some folk with autism have. Where most neuro-typical people were born with an attenuator, people on the spectrum were born with an inbuilt amplifier! Where most people's brains can tune unwanted stimulus out or at least turn it down, people with autism find their senses tend to dial things up to max.

Watch this video and experience what the world can be like for individuals on the spectrum.

People on the spectrum are often overwhelmed by detail and can't always see the wood for the trees. Seeing what the story is, what needs doing, how a leads to z and the order for things can be harder with autism. They often need extra support to focus attention and get a firm grip on what's going on. Sometimes just getting started is impossible because they don't feel guided by the imagination bit of the brain that usually fills in missing details and shows you what the finished goal looks like even before you've begun.

Take your mind off it. Put it to the back of your mind. Don't sweat the small stuff. Just ignore it. It doesn't matter! Don't make a mountain out of a molehill. Well... If you have autism then stuff does tend to matter and if something's bugging you, getting your mind to let go of it can be nigh on impossible. A sensory stimulus can grab hold of your "here and now memory" so keeping your focus and attention where they need to be is a big battle.

As before, the low arousal approach to these issues is two-fold.

Firstly cut down on clutter and things that compete for attention. Not too many voices at one time, watch out for crowd areas. Keep zazzy colours and patterns at bay. Don’t forget intrusive smells too! Create calm, low-stim zones where it's easier to focus and get work done. If you are working with a youngster on the spectrum, try creating a learning cave that protects the senses and focusses attention. Pop up event tents (with the bottom cut out) are great for this.

It’s not a bad idea to think a bit more about the ergonomics of your environment. We want fuss-free spaces where it’s easy to get work done. Remember what Mom said? - “A place for everything and everything in it’s place”. Clear labelling with words and symbols or words and photos will really cut down the arousal factor. Why? Because people with autism will spend less time and energy processing what things 'are' and what they 'mean'.

Secondly let’s hone those "ignoring skills" by practicing with self regulation (SR) and resilience. Encourage your person to be better aware of their SR ability. Promote a systematic, problem solving approach:-

• Stop
• Deep Breath
• Think
• Analyse the problem

Let’s analyse how other people do it and see if any of that would work for me. Before you know it… “Hey! I didn’t let that thing bug me! I’m getting good at this”.

There’s more about skills with self regulation, awareness and resilience on the SPARK* website.

Chris Barson

Director

Positive About Autism™

www.positiveaboutautism.co.uk