I got some good quality noise cancelling headphones 12 months ago and thought they were great. Since doing more reading about ASD and ADHD, I’ve come to understand I have some sensory issues.
I bought some Loop earplugs a few weeks ago after reading about them in other ASD threads and I love wearing them when driving, shopping or in doctor’s waiting rooms. I feel much less anxious and tense.
After doing some more reading and reflection, I think that a weighted blanket might be helpful and so I ordered one.
I’ve been using softer, less jarring alarms and ringtones for years and started using the Smiling Mind phone app recently which has been helpful.
I was wondering if there are any assistive tools/devices/tips that any other ASD people have found that have had a major impact on their lives that they might like that share?
I also got some loops pretty recently, upon recommendations by this community actually (thanks guys!) and they are great. I liked them so much in fact, that after losing one of them at work I ordered a new pair. They definitely help temper my focus amongst the chaos in noisy environments.
What makes you think that the weighted blanket will be helpful? I’ve heard that people like them, but haven’t really looked into them.
As for the alarms, I haven’t used a regular one in a very long time. I use my watch with a vibration alarm, which isn’t great (because the intensity is not adjustable unfortunately) but is still better than any noise alarms for me. At some point I’d like to try another sunrise alarm. I used one before, and I really don’t remember why I stopped using it actually. Hmm.
What is the smiling mind app and why do you like it?
In my reading I came across some info about sleeping problems and one in particular talked about how some ASD people can feel like they are floating on their bed and I remembered feeling that way as a kid. I’ve also never been able to sleep with just a light bed sheet over me. I like the blankets at hospital that are cool but have a bit of weight to them. And just a bunch of other dots I’m starting connect.
Its a free mindfulness/guided meditation app from an Aussie non-profit mental health organization. My psych recommended it, saying that practicing it each day can help reduce stress and anxiety. I like it because each exercise is only 2-6 minutes long and I’ve had difficulty maintaining focus with longer guided meditation exercises.
I can say that my weighted blanket is one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever gotten. The full body pressure helps me relax and keeps me feeling connected to my body - I didn’t realize how much I disconnected when anxious until I got it