We’re going over sensory issues in adult-diagnosed autism therapy. The therapist suggested I find ways to feel squeezed/hugged. So far, I’ve intuitively been using:

  • a weighted blanket (I use blankets whenever I can)
  • a backpack with my laptop zipped up tight nearly everywhere I go

I can’t stand tight clothes, so that’s not going to be helpful.

Any other ideas?

I’ll note ideas up here as users comment.

Edit: I really appreciate everyone’s suggestions. I, a man in my early 40s, bought a 4 lbs dinosaur plushie. It is AMAZING!! I sit at my computer desk, place my legs on the desk in a lounge position, put the plushie on my lap, and use my desktop computer. I feel so much more comfortable and secure. It’s impressive. Thank you!

Other recommendations:

  • weighted vest - I want to find one in person before I purchase it. In the meantime, I’ve been going everywhere with my backpack which helps a little.

  • posture corrector - I haven’t tried it yet, but maybe I will later on.

  • hoodies/coats - I definitely love hoodies, but can’t use them right now. It’s wayyyy too hot, but come winter, I’m going to be Mr. Hoodie.

  • the therapist - She’s too professional to violate ethical boundaries, which is why I like her. I mean, if she got risque with me, I might like that too (sensation seeking), but it might cause problems with my mental health and social boundaries down the line. It’s probably best to not think of her that way and stick to the roles we’re playing. This recommendation and response to it are a joke.

  • sailing_bookdragon
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    2
    ·
    11 months ago

    for me what helps aside from hugging myself, is a heavy winter or rain coat. (I’ve got a sailing jacket that I love for both the weight and how it keeps me dry in all circumstances.) And those I always miss during the warm summer days.

      • sailing_bookdragon
        link
        fedilink
        English
        arrow-up
        2
        ·
        11 months ago

        that might make it more difficult indeed to find some heavy weighted jackets to wear.

        • Comment105@lemm.ee
          link
          fedilink
          English
          arrow-up
          2
          ·
          10 months ago

          If I lived in Florida instead of Norway I’d want a wearable cooling-vest, though I wouldn’t dare to actually walk around in one. Maybe OP is braver.

          It could be heavy and tight, and make you far less hot.

          If it’s built into a tech wear jacket that looks good on him, maybe he could even get away with it?