The Neurodivergent Christmas Survival Guide: Dr Alison Lennox on Family, Burnout & Boundaries
The Hidden 20%Show Notes
Christmas is often described as joyful, but for many neurodivergent people it can be overwhelming, exhausting and full of hidden pressure. In this special episode, Dr Alison Lennox returns to unpack why the festive season can feel so challenging - and how preparation, boundaries and regulation strategies can make a huge difference.
Ben and Alison discuss sensory overload, disrupted routines, family expectations, social fatigue and the pressure to “perform” throughout December. Alison shares practical, compassionate advice on preparing for gatherings, setting boundaries ahead of time, creating exit plans, managing burnout, supporting ND children, and finding small moments to regulate even in busy environments.
Whether you look forward to Christmas or quietly dread it, this episode gives permission to approach the season differently - with clarity, self-compassion and a plan that puts your wellbeing first.
CW: This episode contains discussion of mental health crisis, overwhelm and emotional distress, particularly around the festive period.
If you are struggling, in emotional distress or feel unsafe, please reach out:
Samaritans (24/7) - Call 116 123 or visit https://www.samaritans.org Shout Crisis Textline - Text SHOUT to 85258 Mind – https://www.mind.org.uk NHS 111 (urgent mental health support) – https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E.
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Host: Ben Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg Head of Marketing: Kristen Fuller
00:00 Introduction 00:47 Being Neurodivergent at Christmas: Why the Festive Season Is Hard 3:34 Family Expectations, Routines and Holiday Pressure 5:00 Why the Festive Season Can Be Overwhelming for ND People 6:03 First Christmas After an ND Diagnosis: Handling Difficult Family Reactions 10:24 Setting Boundaries Without Guilt & Planning Ahead to Reduce Holiday Stress 14:40 Setting Boundaries Without Shame: ND Social Masking & Avoiding Burnout 25:25 How to Support Neurodivergent Children at Christmas 30:30 Dr Alison’s Top Tips for Setting Healthy Boundaries 34:42 Dr Alison’s Festive Advice for ADHD’ers on Medication 36:00 Alcohol vs Neurodivergent Brains 39:50 The Importance of Preparation for ND Regulation at Christmas 42:39 Managing Sensory Overload & Navigating Christmas Traditions 45:54 What ND People Can Do If They or a Loved One Are in Distress 48:03 Dr Alison’s Final Words of Advice: Q&A From Our Listeners
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Website: www.hidden20.org Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity Ben Branson @seedlip_ben Dr Alison Lennox https://www.dralisonlennox.com/
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