Date: 15/12/22
Support Tips:
Preparation: in order to best prepare
some actions might include ~
Considering your sensory needs- pack a bag with sensory aids such as headphones, earplugs, coloured glasses, stim tools, comfort items and so on to support your comfort whilst at your appointment.
Considering your communication needs- perhaps take a trusted friend or family member to support with verbal communication, a hospital passport that you can share with staff or notes including scripted comments or responses that you can refer to during the appointment to support with or replace verbal speech.
Wear suitable clothing that can be easily taken on and off.
To minimise uncertainty, research what is involved in the procedure before attending so that you have a good idea what to expect.
Write out a list of questions to avoid relying on memory during a potentially stressful experience.
Plan your travel route in advance and leave plenty of time to get to your appointment to minimise anxiety and allow time to adjust to the environment upon arrival.
Engage in calming, grounding techniques prior to the appointment start time.
During: whilst at the appointment it may be helpful to ~
Ask for the nurse practitioner to talk you through the procedure in full before it commences, preferably with use of images or demonstrations with relevant equipment.
Be open about which aspects of the experience you might struggle with as an Autistic person and request particular adjustments.
Engage in grounding techniques such as mindful breathing.
Hold on to a stim object that is comforting or acts as a stress reliever.
Listen to music to support self-regulation.
Share your concerns or worries with the nurse practitioner to invite reassurance or helpful advice.
Remember your reason for attending and why it is important for you.
Aftercare: following the procedure, it is a good idea to plan in some time for self-care and self-regulation, some ideas might include ~
Get yourself into a sensory safe space where things feel predictable and calm (for e.g. a quiet room with dim lighting, weighted blanket etc).
Arrange to debrief/chat to a friend or another supportive person about your experience after leaving your appointment.
Arrange to meet with a trusted person following the procedure to support you with getting back home or perhaps to do something you might enjoy together.
Engage in your dedicated interest.
Acknowledge your achievement in attending and getting through the appointment.
Journal about your experience to help with emotional processing.
Engage in your favourite stim to release any tension that may remain in your b0dy.
Allow yourself to physically rest or sleep once back at home.
Date: 15/12/22