Autism (ASD) Blog

GABA and Autism: Understanding the Brain’s Calming Connection

GABA is the brain’s natural “calm chemical” — a neurotransmitter that helps quiet sensory overwhelm and regulate emotions. Research shows that autistic people may process GABA differently, offering insight into... Read more...

Autistic Adults and Animals: Understanding A Bond Beyond Words

For many autistic adults, animals are more than pets, they are steady companions who offer comfort without judgment. In their presence, we can unmask, breathe easier, and feel accepted for... Read more...

Mockery Made Policy: Trump and the Undoing of Disability Rights

When Donald Trump waved his arms to mock disabled reporter Serge Kovaleski in 2015, it shocked the nation. Many hoped it was just an ugly moment of campaign theatrics. But... Read more...

Autism Rumination: Why Thought Loops Happen and How to Cope

Rumination in autism means being stuck in thought loops that replay mistakes, unfair moments, or worries. This guide explores why it happens, how anger makes it worse, and gentle ways... Read more...

ADHD Burnout vs Autistic Burnout: A Gentle Guide for Neurodivergent Adults

Burnout doesn’t look the same for everyone. This beginner’s guide helps you tell the difference between ADHD burnout and autistic burnout, and find the right support for your nervous system. Read more...

I’m Autistic. I Don’t Know How to Make Friends. But I Still Want To

What does friendship look like when you’re autistic and exhausted by the usual scripts? This isn’t a list of tips. It’s a space for reflection, for honesty, and for anyone... Read more...

How Long Does Autistic Burnout Last? A Guide for Autistic Adults

Autistic burnout doesn’t have a fixed timeline. For some, it lasts days; for others, it can stretch into months or even years. This guide explores why recovery varies and how... Read more...

Autistic and Hate Dancing? You’re Not Alone

Many autistic adults dislike dancing, and that’s completely okay. From sensory overwhelm to social pressure, the dance floor isn’t for everyone. This article explores why dancing can feel uncomfortable, validates... Read more...

Autistic Overwhelm: How to Recognize, Prevent & Recover from Sensory and Emotional Overload

Autistic overwhelm isn’t about overreacting — it’s a real, neurological response to too much input, too fast. This guide explores what it feels like, how to recognize the signs early,... Read more...

Grief and Autism: How Autistic People Experience Loss and Bereavement

Grief touches everyone, but for autistic adults the process often looks different. Misunderstanding these differences can leave people isolated. This guide explores autistic grief and how to support it with... Read more...

Autistic Fatigue: A Guide to Managing Exhaustion and Low Energy in Autism

Autistic fatigue is more than feeling tired. It’s a deep exhaustion shaped by sensory overload, masking, and constant demands. This guide explains what it feels like, how it differs from... Read more...

What Makes Clothing Truly Sensory-Friendly? A Guide for Autistic Adults

Discover how sensory-friendly clothing can reduce overwhelm, ease daily discomfort, and support confidence, especially for autistic adults and others with sensory sensitivities. Read more...

Clothes for Autism That Feel Good for Autistic Adults

Finding clothes that feel good shouldn’t be this hard. At HeyASD, we design sensory-friendly clothing with real autistic experience, not just clinical checklists. This guide breaks down what “autism-friendly” really... Read more...

Top 15 Thoughtful Gifts for Autistic Adults

Thoughtful gifts shouldn’t be hard to find. This guide shares some of the best gift ideas for autistic adults, sensory-friendly, empowering, and made with care by and for our community. Read more...

Autism and Aging: How Autistic Adults Thrive and Grow with Time

Autism doesn’t fade with age — it evolves. This in-depth guide explores how sensory needs, emotions, and identity shift as autistic adults grow older, offering lived insight, science, and gentle... Read more...

Setting Up an Autism-Friendly Workspace at Home

Learn how to create an autism-friendly workspace at home with tips on lighting, colors, soundproofing, and more. Read more...

Some of Us Are Vegan. Not to Be Fixed, Just to Be Ourselves

For a lot of autistic adults, being vegan isn’t about health trends, it’s about deep values and feeling at ease in your own body. Here’s a grounded look at veganism... Read more...

Hydration and Autism: The Importance of Water

ABA Data Collection: Methods, Tools, and the Process Explained

Discover how ABA data collection works, the types of methods used, and why accuracy matters for meaningful therapy outcomes. Read more...

Autism Travel: A Practical Guide for Sensory-Friendly and Relaxing Trips

Traveling as an autistic adult doesn’t have to mean stress or sensory overload. This guide explores how to plan, pack, and experience trips that feel calm, predictable, and enjoyable —... Read more...

Enhancing Social Skills: The Impact of Music Therapy for Autism

Exploring the Impact of Music Therapy on Social Skills for Individuals with Autism: Discover how music therapy can enhance social interaction and communication skills for individuals with autism, supported by... Read more...

Occupational Therapy for Autistic Adults: Building Comfort and Independence

Occupational therapy can help autistic adults create daily routines that feel calmer, more manageable, and self-defined. Learn how affirming OT supports sensory comfort, executive function, and independence. Read more...

Meals for Kids with Autism: Stress-Free Plans & Safe Food Ideas

Mealtimes can be tough when sensory needs, "picky eating", and safe foods are in the mix. This guide shares simple meal ideas, autism-friendly menus, and calm planning tips — so... Read more...

Executive Functioning in Autism: Insights, Supports & Strategies

Gain insights into executive functioning in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Discover challenges, support strategies, and tips for promoting success. Read more...

Why ABA Therapy Remains Controversial in the Autism Community

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has long been one of the most common autism therapies — yet it’s also one of the most debated. This article explores why many autistic people... Read more...

Autism Art Therapy: Unleashing Creativity for Personal Expression

Discover the transformative power of art therapy for autism. Enhance self-expression, communication, and well-being. Find hope and growth through creative exploration. Read more...

Mindfulness in Autism: Cultivating Inner Peace & Emotional Well-being

Discover the benefits of mindfulness for individuals with autism, promoting inner peace and well-being. Improve sensory regulation, emotional management, and social skills. Read more...

Transcendental Meditation & Autism: A Gentle Path to Calm and Connection

For many autistic adults, stillness can feel both healing and hard. Transcendental Meditation offers a gentle, sensory-friendly path to calm, self-connection, and relief from everyday overwhelm. Read more...

Good Questions to Ask A Prospective ASD Therapist

Finding the right therapist as an adult with autism can be a challenging task. Here are some essential questions to ask before making a decision. Read more...

30 Healthy Habits for Autism: Promoting Wellbeing & Development

Healthy habits for Autism: Promote well-being, communication and independence. Enhance the quality of life for individuals with autism. Read more...

Autism and Meditation: A Gentle Guide to Calm That Respects Your Sensory Needs

Meditation can help autistic adults find calm when it’s adapted to sensory needs. This guide offers gentle, flexible ways to build comfort and regulation — no pressure, no perfection, just... Read more...

Autism Sleep Aids for Adults with Autism

Here are the best autism sleep aids for adults with autism. Non-pharmacological options include weighted blankets, white noise machines, aromatherapy and more. Read more...

Best Hobbies for Autistic Adults That Nourish, Calm & Inspire

Discover the best hobbies for autistic adults — from calming solo activities to creative outlets that bring joy, self-expression, sensory regulation, and a sense of wonder. Read more...

Autism Therapy: Therapists that can Assist Individuals with Autism

Autism therapy can enhance skills, improve communication, and support individuals on the spectrum. Learn therapy types that can assist with ASD. Read more...

Autism and Sleep: Why Rest Feels Different, and How to Find Peace at Night

Sleep doesn’t come easily for many autistic adults — and it’s not just insomnia. From sensory sensitivities to melatonin differences, the autistic brain experiences rest in a unique way. This... Read more...

Essential Autism Products for Adults: Tools That Truly Support Daily Life

Explore sensory-friendly tools, autism-friendly clothing, communication aids, and more. Real products made to support autistic adults in everyday life. Read more...

Autism Hobbies: Enriching Activities for Individuals with Autism

Discover a diverse range of autism hobbies that can provide individuals with autism a means of self-expression, relaxation, and personal growth. From sensory-based activities to creative pursuits, find engaging hobbies... Read more...

Travel for Autistic Adults: A Calm, Empowering Guide to Planning with Confidence

Travel can be deeply rewarding, but for many autistic adults, myself included, it also brings unique challenges. This guide helps you plan calmly, confidently, and at your own pace. Read more...

How Speech Therapy Can Help Adults with Autism

Learn how speech therapy can help adults with autism improve their communication and social skills, and enhance their overall quality of life. Read more...

How Occupational Therapy Can Help Adults with Autism

Discover how occupational therapy can improve daily living skills, enhance social interactions, manage sensory issues, and support mental health in adults with autism. Read more...

How Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Can Help Adults with Autism

Discover how Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy can help adults with autism. Learn about the benefits, process, and effectiveness of CBT. Read more...

Self-Care for Autistic Adults: A Compassionate Guide to Comfort and Balance

Self-care for autistic adults isn’t about doing more — it’s about finding comfort, peace, and authenticity. This guide explores practical, sensory-aware ways to care for yourself with compassion. Read more...