A Day in the Life: Living on the Spectrum with Sensory Challenges
For many neurodivergent individuals, everyday life is shaped by a unique interplay of sensory sensitivities, routines, a need for control, and various challenges that we face.
Today, we take a glimpse into the world of someone navigating autism, sensory processing issues, and the mental load that comes with it.
Morning: The Battle with Textures
Waking up should be simple, but it starts before the alarm goes off, with a mind already overthinking the pending day’s events, still exhausted from the overwhelm of yesterday where there were just too many people to have to deal with, and now it’s rinse and repeat of yesterday.
First up, the daily ritual of hair washing, drying and styling, because anything less feels unbearable, and she cannot stand the smell of “sleep”… it’s a real thing!
Damp towels after a shower? Off-limits, and heaven forbid that disgusting smell towels get when they’re not hung out to dry every single day! Two fresh, dry towels is a non-negotiable necessity because she can’t stand the
feeling of being “cold wet.”
Creams, lotions, body butter (not going to happen) that feels sticky on your skin all day, so trial and testing of various body creams is essential to get one that doesn’t feel sticky all day.
And now the hard part, an exhausting decision…what to wear. Fabrics matter. Anything too tight, scratchy, has
a label or tag, feels wrong today, or with the wrong seams? Absolutely not. After several outfit changes, the right one is finally found.
Midday: Sensory Overload and Overthinking
Work presents its own challenges. The annoying hum of fluorescent lights, the deafening noise of the ceiling fan, that lawnmower that just won’t stop, the unpredictable temperature of a room (jacket on, jacket off), the constant effort to filter background noise, all of it adds up.
Then there’s lunch. The sound of someone chewing nearby triggers an immediate, intense wave of anger or rage. It’s not just annoying, it’s physically agitating, a reaction often dismissed or even unheard by others.
The urge to escape grows stronger, and masking the discomfort is exhausting. We’ve been conditioned over years to silence our own discomfort and tolerate these things.
Afternoon: Autism Burnout Creeps In
The weight of overstimulation, overthinking, and expectations builds with each social interaction . Every decision feels overwhelming; what to say, how to react, whether an interaction went well or if it will replay in an exhaustive, obsessive mental loop later. The exhaustion isn’t just physical; it’s a deep mental drain. By now, burnout is
knocking at the door.
Evening: The Need for Comfort
After a long day, the need for comfort is more intense than ever. Decompressing in one way or another is crucial, the hour long commute in the car in absolute silence, a walk, a shower or bubble bath to wash off all the energy of the day, something to help reset the senses, washing away the tension.
Loose, familiar clothing is a must. Old pyjamas are worn inside out because they are “scratchy”, nothing that clings or irritates. Finally, a moment of peace…until the cycle starts again tomorrow.
Why Awareness Matters
This is just one experience of living on the spectrum. Sensory struggles, burnout, and overthinking aren’t quirks; they’re real, daily battles. Understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals means acknowledging these challenges and making space for accommodations, empathy, and change.
Do you relate to these experiences, or do you know someone who does? At the Spectrum Centre, we have trained Psychologists Specialists who can help you navigate the neurodiverse experience, assess if you are on the spectrum and help you understand yourself better.
CLICK HERE to learn more or make a booking
By: Athena Faye, Clinical Psychologist (South Africa)
