The Neurodivergent’s Guide to Surviving Christmas
Ah, Christmas—a time for joy, cheer, and the inevitable sensory overload that comes with twinkling lights, bustling crowds, and Aunt Mildred’s perfume that could tranquilize a horse. For those of us with ADHD or ASD, the festive season can feel less like “Silent Night” and more like “Enter Sandman.” But fear not! Here’s your tongue-in-cheek survival guide to navigating the holiday madness.
1. Deck the Halls… Gradually
Transforming your home into Santa’s grotto overnight might sound magical, but for the neurodivergent brain, it’s akin to waking up on a different planet. Instead, introduce decorations slowly—perhaps start with a single bauble and work your way up to tinsel. By Easter, you should have the tree up.
2. The Gift of Hyperfocus
ADHD folks, this is your time to shine! Channel that hyperfocus into gift shopping. Sure, you might spend 72 hours straight finding the perfect present for your cat, but think of the satisfaction when Mr. Whiskers unwraps that custom-made scratching post.
3. Sensory-Friendly Festive Fashion
Ugly Christmas sweaters made of the itchiest wool known to humanity? Hard pass. Opt for sensory-friendly attire—perhaps a festive onesie that feels like a hug from a cloud. Bonus: it’s socially acceptable to wear pajamas all day during the holidays.
4. Silent Night: The Literal Edition
Time to invest in noise-canceling headphones. Blast your favorite tunes or enjoy the sweet sound of silence. Either way, you’ll avoid hearing yet another rendition of “Jingle Bells” performed off-key.
5. The Art of Selective Socialising
Holiday parties can be a minefield of small talk and social faux pas. Politely RSVP with a “maybe” and decide on the day. Your true friends will understand, and the others will be too tipsy on eggnog to notice your absence.
6. Routine, Routine, Routine
The festive season loves to throw routines out the window, but your neurodivergent brain thrives on them. Create a holiday schedule that includes regular downtime. Yes, watching “Die Hard” for the 47th time counts as self-care.
7. Food: The Double-Edged Candy Cane
Holiday treats are tempting, but sugar crashes are not. Pace yourself with the sweets, and remember: just because Grandma offers you a fifth mince pie doesn’t mean you have to accept. Feigning a sudden love for kale might just save you.
8. Embrace the Online Shopping Rabbit Hole
Crowded malls? No, thank you. Dive into the world of online shopping, but set a timer. Otherwise, you might emerge three days later with a cart full of items like a yodeling pickle or a Nicolas Cage pillowcase.
9. Communicate Your Needs with Flair
Let family and friends know your holiday preferences. Perhaps send a festive newsletter outlining your top 10 sensory triggers. Make it lighthearted—nothing says Christmas like a well-placed emoji.
10. Remember: It’s Your Holiday Too
At the end of the day, Christmas is about joy and comfort. If that means spending it wrapped in a weighted blanket, sipping cocoa, and avoiding humanity—so be it. After all, ’tis the season to be… yourself.
Disclaimer: No Aunt Mildreds were harmed in the making of this blog. Any resemblance to real persons, living or perfumed, is purely coincidental.
For more insights and support on navigating neurodivergence during the holidays, visit ClearPath Diagnostics.
