Changes

Change is not easy for my child who is on the autism spectrum and has other diagnoses. I also have a hard time with change and, as his mother, panic right alongside him when something big happens. 

My family is making an unplanned move due to an issue outside of our control. Moving is stressful for anyone, neurotypical or not. I know that keeping myself calm, centered and breathing is going to help my child as well. This can be difficult in times of crisis when my anxiety runs smack-dab into his. If I do not manage my anxiety, his will be out of control. 

My internal mantra of late is “Breathe. Breathe. Breathe.” 

For now, it’s okay for me to not micromanage screen time. For now, the socks in the middle of the floor can be picked up by me or they can stay there. For now, reassuring my child is also reassuring myself that it’s all okay. We’re on a life adventure! 

It’s letting go of the little things that helps us through these times. This too shall pass. We will go through this and look back on it and see how strong we are. Coping and dealing with change is a lifelong challenge for all of us, but especially for those of us who find challenges in daily living. 

Read other parents’ suggestions on stress management during a move.