How to support your neurodivergent teen
Knowing how best to support neurodiverse young people can be a challenge, especially during the complex developmental period of adolescence. In this week’s session, we talked to Dr Sarah-Jane Knight, a Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience in working with neurodivergent children and adolescents, about ways to help teens manage sensory sensitivity, overwhelm and emotional regulation in daily life, including social and school settings.
Recognising sensory sensitivity and emotional overwhelm
Sensory sensitivity in neurodivergent teens can manifest in various ways, from overt behaviours like meltdowns to more subtle signs such as withdrawal or freezing. Understanding these signs is key to offering the right support at the right time. Sensory overload can happen in obvious situations, like crowded places, but it can also occur in less obvious ones. Dr Sarah-Jane recommends building a ‘sensory map’ with your teen, which can help identify triggers and develop a shared understanding of their experiences.
Developing emotional regulation skills
Dr Sarah-Jane explained how helping teens develop emotional regulation skills involves recognising when they are overwhelmed and suggesting strategies without being intrusive. When a teen feels overwhelmed, allowing them to regroup is essential. This might involve taking a short break or finding a quiet space. Encouraging them to have a pre-prepared excuse for stepping away can help them manage social situations without drawing attention. It's important to avoid pressuring them to articulate their feelings when they're stressed, as this can exacerbate their anxiety.
Tracking successful coping mechanisms and discussing them later can reinforce positive behaviours. It's a process of trial and error, and capturing what works and doesn't work in a notebook or visual map can be helpful.
Coping with sensory sensitivity
Understanding what sensory experiences are soothing or stimulating for each individual can guide the development of effective coping strategies. Incorporating movement breaks and creating quiet spaces can help manage sensory sensitivity. Techniques like breathing exercises and understanding personal sensory profiles can also be useful.
Balancing support and independence
Parents often face the challenge of providing enough support without being overbearing. It's essential to reflect on personal anxieties and gradually step back and allow teens to develop independence, even if it means they make mistakes along the way. This approach helps build their confidence and coping skills.
Addressing challenges with social media and gaming
Excessive use of social media and gaming can impact a teen's engagement with the real world. Establishing a structured routine with clear boundaries around screen time can help balance their activities. Encouraging outdoor activities, social interactions and good sleep habits is really important for their health and development.
Seeking professional help
For teens struggling with issues like OCD or eating disorders, professional intervention is often necessary. Engaging with healthcare providers and exploring resources from charities can provide additional support. It's important to prioritise mental health concerns and seek appropriate treatment.
Supporting neurodivergent teens requires parents to really understand their unique sensory and emotional needs. By developing indvidualised plans and working towards a level of independence, parents and caregivers can help teens face up to and work through challenges and setbacks. Continuous calm reflection and adaptation of support strategies is also necessary when considering the impact on wellbeing.
Further guidance, consulting with healthcare professionals and utilising available resources can provide additional support in understanding and managing what can often seem like complex issues and behaviours.