Sensory Overload Autism Worksheet
By
HappierTherapy
Author bio
The Happier Therapy editorial team is made up of Masters and PhD counselling psychologists. Each worksheet is created by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter. The worksheet then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.
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What is the theory behind this Sensory Overload Autism Worksheet?
Sensory overload is a condition where our senses are stimulated to such a point that it is difficult for the brain to process the incoming information and cope accordingly. It is a common struggle for people with autism. Cognitive behavioural therapy with autism-focused interventions can help such individuals deal with this overstimulation by identifying the triggers and working out effective communication and coping strategies.
How will the worksheet help?
This worksheet can help individuals with autism to identify their major sensory triggers and develop a ‘sensory break’ plan to both avoid overstimulation in the first place and to cope effectively if it does happen. It will also help them plan specific ways to communicate their needs to others around them at a time like this. Having a plan in place can lessen their anxiety and fears surrounding such experiences in the future.
How to use the worksheet?
This worksheet can be used to help individuals seeking therapy for the management of their symptoms related to autism. Instruct them to answer the questions related to triggers, coping and communication strategies for the specific sensory experiences that are too overwhelming and overstimulating for them.
