12/06/2025
Self-care isn't selfish - it's essential. For autistic men, effective self-care means understanding your unique needs and responding to them with compassion. Here are 6 practical tips to support your wellbeing:
1. π― Create and Protect Your Routines Structure isn't boring - it's liberating. Establish daily routines that work for YOU. Use alarms for basic tasks like meals, exercise, or winding down. When you know what to expect, your nervous system can relax instead of constantly scanning for what's next.
2. π§ Honour Your Sensory Needs Your sensory preferences aren't quirks - they're requirements. Create a sensory toolkit: noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, weighted blankets, or specific textures that calm you. Don't apologise for needing these supports - they're part of taking care of yourself.
3. πββοΈ Embrace Stimming as Self-Care Stimming isn't something to hide - it's a natural way your body regulates emotions and sensory input. Whether it's hand-flapping, rocking, or fidgeting, allow yourself to stim freely. These movements help manage anxiety, reduce overwhelm, and express joy.
4. π Carve Out Alone Time. Solitude isn't isolation - it's restoration. Many autistic men recharge best when alone. Schedule regular downtime without guilt. Whether it's pursuing special interests, sitting in silence, or just being in your own space, this time is crucial for your mental health.
5. π Break Down Overwhelming Tasks Big tasks can feel impossible, but small steps are manageable. Use productivity apps or simple to-do lists to break complex tasks into smaller chunks. Celebrate completing each step - progress is progress, no matter how small.
6. π€ Build Your Support Network You don't have to navigate life alone. Connect with other autistic men, join online communities, or find autism-informed professionals who understand your experiences. Having people who "get it" can make all the difference to your wellbeing.
Remember: Your autism isn't something to manage away - it's part of who you are. Self-care means working WITH your autistic brain, not against it. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your strengths, and prioritise what genuinely makes you feel good.
What self-care tip resonates most with you? Share in the comments - your experience might help another autistic man on his journey.