“Stop It!”: What Bob Newhart Got Right (and Wrong) About Mental Health and Neurodivergence

In this lighthearted Waking Up Neurodivergent Wednesday bonus episode of Love on the Autism Spectrum, therapist and neurodivergent coach Barbara (Blaze) Lazarony, LMFT, explores a surprising mental health insight hidden inside a classic Bob Newhart comedy sketch. In it, Newhart plays a therapist who tells his anxious client to simply: “Stop it.”

While the line is played for laughs, Blaze unpacks how this moment actually mirrors a valid therapeutic concept: pattern interruption. For many neurodivergent individuals, stopping a spiraling thought—even briefly—can bring a return to clarity, safety, and presence.

You’ll hear:

• Why humor can be a healing tool for neurodivergent anxiety
• How to use a gentle “stop it” to break internal loops without shame
• A short grounding breath practice and reflective prompt to help you pause and reset

This episode reminds us that while healing is real, it doesn’t always have to be heavy. Simple strategies can create powerful shifts, especially when offered with warmth and self-compassion.

📺 Watch the original sketch on YouTube

#LoveOnTheAutismSpectrum #NeurodivergentAnxiety #PatternInterruption #MentalHealthHumor #BobNewhartTherapist #AnxietyTools #HealingWithHumor #NeurodivergentSupport #StopItTechnique

Explore more tools, relationship guidance, and weekly blog posts at:

🌐 www.LoveOnTheAutismSpectrum.com

For behind-the-scenes reflections and bonus content, follow along on Instagram:

📸 @BlazeLazarony

✨ Come for the real talk. Stay for the support. You’re not alone here.

**This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health care. Barbara (Blaze) Lazarony, LMFT, is a licensed therapist in California, but this content does not constitute a therapeutic relationship. For personalized support, consult a qualified professional. If you're in crisis, call 988 or seek local emergency services.**