Neurodivergent Nervous Systems: Why Rest & Regulation Matter

Research suggests that autistic and ADHD nervous systems may have to work harder to stay regulated. In autism, some studies point to a more activated stress response and lower heart-rate-based markers of vagal tone. In ADHD, some research points to low arousal, which can show up as sluggishness, low motivation, or low mood. When anxiety co-occurs, people often report more physical discomfort, such as dizziness, sweating, and digestive upset. More research is needed; but in the meantime, making room for rest and nervous system regulation is worth prioritizing, whatever your brain type.

Transcript

There is a body of research supporting the idea that neurodivergent individuals experience more autonomic nervous system dysregulation than their neurotypical counterparts. In autism, We sometimes see overactivity with the sympathetic nervous system or fight or flight response. Other studies have documented weaker vagal tone in autistic individuals. I won't talk too much here about the vagus nerve but it is essentially what helps our nervous system stay balanced. And ADHD. We sometimes see more hypoarousal or what is called dorsal vagal collapse using polyvagal language. But essentially this can manifest as sluggishness, Low motivation, Or low mood. We also see that common comorbidities such as co-occurring anxiety and autism. Account for even more dysregulation, At least in self-report measures. Folks are reporting more physiological discomfort such as dizziness, Sweatiness, And digestive issues. It is important to note that most studies are small, Cross-sectional, And focused on children. So more research is needed. But in the meantime, It certainly doesn't hurt to prioritize nervous system regulation and rest. You can check out my page for some techniques to help you regulate. I have some shorter practices as well as some longer ones.