If you use sensory aids, you probably already know 2 things about them:

• They make a huge difference
• A lot of people don’t know how necessary they are

Sensory aids are just that: a necessity. They’re the difference between feeling completely drained, and actually having energy left; whether that be in a social setting, at work, or even at home.

Through years of trial and error, I have built up my own little collection of incredibly useful tools that I use on a daily basis.

Communication Cards

When I am stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or dysregulated, it is very common for me to have verbal shutdowns. My partner was the one who found these communication cards and suggested these to me in the first place. I like to think of these as a backup form of communication. The cards are simple, cute, easy to use, and have useful phrases such as ‘Yes’, ‘No’, or the one that gets a lot of use: ‘I’m not sure what I need/how I feel…can you ask me questions so we can figure it out together?’

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme gives people with non-visible disabilities a discreet, sensitive way to signal that they may need extra support.

The ID cards (which pairs with the lanyard) themselves are simple, easy to understand, and can be personalised to fit your specific needs. the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower can pretty much be used anywhere; from travel, retail, days out, and everything in-between!

Fidgets

I’m very excited to talk about these! Using fidgets has been a complete game-changer for me. For years I’d struggled with feeling so dysregulated throughout my day, whether I was out, or at home. Overstimulation, anxiety, and lack of focus were a regular occurrence.

Since I started using fidgets daily, my days are so much more regulated and focused! The 2 fidgets I religiously use my ONO Roller, and Stimagz. Each are essential in their own way!

I use the aluminium ONO Roller – it’s smooth, weighted, and completely silent – which makes it perfect for when I’m out and about, or working. An added and unexpected bonus of the ONO Roller is that can be used with one hand, which for someone who uses mobility aids regularly, means all of my needs can be met.

I have used Stimagz from the moment they were born! They are magnetic, tactile and silent – perfect for meetings, or for when I need extra sensory input. They are discreet, and are perfectly portable for whenever I may need them!

Loop Earplugs

Crowded, noisy environments have always been a barrier – in more ways than one. Loop Earplugs were the product that helped me understand how much noise affects me on a daily basis – which might sound surprising coming from someone who is completely Deaf on one side! They are discreet, and simply take the edge off overwhelming background noise.

I personally use the Loop Engage, Quiet, Experience and Dream.

To sum up…

What I’ve learned through this journey is that while tools like fidgets and earplugs are often dismissed as ‘childish’ or ‘unnecessary’, they are powerful tools for managing stress, anxiety, overwhelm and focus. Who knew that such small, often discreet items could provide so much relief?

L.

Product of the Month: …All of what’s listed here!

It’s too hard to pick just one product this month, and I feel this is so fitting with this month’s blog! All of the products here are essential in their own way and very highly recommended!