✨ Managing the Festive Season as a Neurodivergent Individual

The end of the year brings a mix of celebration, tradition, and social gatherings—but for neurodivergent individuals, this time can also feel overwhelming, unpredictable, or exhausting.

Whether you’re celebrating Christmas 🎅, Hanukkah 🕎, Yule ❄️, Diwali 🪔, Hogmanay 🥂, Eid 🕌 (depending on the calendar), or simply navigating the general buzz of the festive season, it’s okay to experience this time in your own way.

At NEST, we want to acknowledge that not everyone finds the festive season joyful—and that’s completely valid. For some, it’s a time of sensory overload, disrupted routines, and social pressure. For others, it’s deeply meaningful, exciting, or comforting. And for many, it’s a bit of everything!

Wherever you are and however you celebrate, here are some gentle, inclusive tips to help you manage the season on your own terms:

💡 1. You don’t have to celebrate like everyone else.

Traditions look different in every household, community, and culture—and they’re allowed to evolve. Whether you mark a religious holiday, observe family traditions, or prefer to opt out completely, your way is the right way for you.

🎧 2. Plan for sensory needs.

Loud music, lights, new foods, strong scents, busy environments—it can all add up. Try:

• Wearing headphones or ear defenders

• Bringing comfort items or fidget tools

• Having a quiet “reset” space nearby

• Taking short breaks during events

  
  

🗓️ 3. Keep a visual or written plan.

A lot can change during this season—school schedules, work routines, social calendars. A simple plan or calendar can help you stay grounded. Try:

• Visual schedules or digital planners

• Checklists to break the day down

• Routines that build in time to decompress

  
  

💬 4. Practice conversations in advance.

If socialising feels tricky, it’s okay to prepare. You might want to:

• Script or practise common questions (e.g. “What are you doing for the holidays?” or “How’s your year been?”)

• Set boundaries for how long you’ll stay at gatherings

• Let someone close to you know how they can support you

  
  

🧸 5. Prioritise comfort and familiarity.

You don’t need to wear uncomfortable clothes, try unfamiliar foods, or stay in unfamiliar places unless you want to. Comfort brings regulation. If that means PJs and your favourite film—go for it.

✋ 6. Say no without guilt.

It’s okay to skip events, decline invitations, or leave early. You are not being rude—you are protecting your wellbeing. Rest is not laziness; it’s necessary.

🧠 7. Reclaim the season on your own terms.

Maybe you create your own tradition—a quiet walk, a creative project, or a solo celebration. Maybe you celebrate with others in small, meaningful ways. Maybe this season is something you’d rather not focus on at all. That’s all valid.

💛 You are not alone

The world can feel loud and busy at this time of year. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or just “different”—you are not alone. Neurodivergent people experience and celebrate in beautifully diverse ways.

From all of us at NEST, we see you, we support you, and we hope this season brings you moments of peace, connection, and self-kindness—however that looks for you.