Moving and Change: How Can an Autistic Person Cope with Stress?

The main task that needs to be addressed in advance is planning how the relocation to a new home will be organized. First and foremost, this will help avoid any complications that might arise. An additional challenge is explaining to the family member with autism, especially a child, that there is no reason to worry about the move. People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are especially attached to a strict routine, have difficulty adapting to changing conditions, and fear losing their familiar comfort.

As a result of these anxieties, the level of stress may increase, and a nervous breakdown with unpredictable consequences could occur. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the autistic person clearly understands what is going to happen and feels reassured that the changes will not harm their routine and habits. In this case, the process of adapting to the new living environment will be much smoother and take less time.

During the conversation, it’s important to explain the reasons for the move, not just through verbal descriptions—photographs of the new home or an illustrated calendar with the moving date highlighted can be useful visual aids. Don’t rush the child to respond—on the contrary, they need sufficient time to process the information and express how they feel about the situation.

Maintaining Familiar Habits

Keeping familiar routines, even in small things, can help provide a sense of stability, so even the layout of the new house or apartment should be as similar as possible to the previous one. It would also be helpful to take one or more “tours” so that the child can personally explore the new living space and see that the changes will improve living conditions. Positive reactions can also be formed through role-playing games that simulate the move, which children with ASD usually respond well to. Finally, involve the child in the preparation process so they feel a sense of responsibility and understand they have control over the situation. Overall, the process of changing homes should no longer be a mystery that causes anxiety for the autistic person.

Moving Day and Adjusting to the New Home

Moving day itself can be hectic and stressful, so it’s important to create a detailed schedule, adding pictures if possible. While family members and movers are packing up, the child can settle into a quiet, cozy spot to isolate themselves if the situation becomes overwhelming. They should have their favorite items, such as books or toys, to provide a sense of stability. After the move, give them time to get used to the new environment and quickly restore the usual routine.

Important Rules for the Moving Process

• Personalizing the New Space: The child should have the opportunity to decorate their room and other spaces they will frequently visit. They have the right to choose the decor or arrange things in a way that makes them feel comfortable and at ease.
• Stabilizing Sensory Sensitivity: The sensory system may become overloaded if light, noise, and smells are too strong or unfamiliar. Initially, while the child adjusts, use dimmer lighting and reduce the volume of the television or music system.
• Ensuring Safety: It is essential that the child feels secure in the new environment, whether throughout the entire house or in specific areas designated just for them. Walk with them around the house to help them familiarize themselves with the space and reassure them that there is no danger.
• Introducing the New School and Socializing: If the child is changing schools, it is important to visit the school beforehand, meet teachers and staff, as these interactions will become part of the new routine. Building relationships with other parents whose children are of similar age or share similar interests would also be beneficial.
• Ongoing Communication: It’s necessary to maintain constant communication throughout the moving process. The child should feel secure and be able to share their thoughts and feelings. Pay attention to their responses and make adjustments as necessary.

By following these guidelines, the move will likely go smoothly. However, the task can be significantly simplified and many behavioral unpredictabilities can be avoided if stem cell therapy is utilized in advance. Stem cell therapy is a natural way to alleviate or reduce the symptoms of autism. It involves transplanting the patient’s own biological material, which eliminates the risk of rejection. The transplanted stem cells transform into healthy analogs of the damaged cells and replace them, which helps normalize behavioral and other aspects, increasing the effectiveness of supportive therapeutic approaches.

Reliable and safe stem cell therapy has received widespread recognition and may become a key tool in the fight against autism in the future. Currently, it is practiced by only a few leading clinics worldwide, including the Mardaleishvili Medical Center. The center is equipped with cutting-edge technology, and the team consists of highly qualified specialists with extensive experience in treating ASD. Patients also benefit from affordable services compared to other countries and the staff’s support with trip and accommodation arrangements.

Stem cell therapy is the best way to prevent stress and other problems related to autism!