If you would like to join the "mixed neurotype" support group that Mona Kay and Jodi Carlton co-facilitate called "Navigating Your Neurodiverse Relationship" you can register at: https://jodicarlton.com/groups/

During this episode and many more throughout the season, Greg Fuqua, LMHC is co-hosting the podcast with Mona Kay. This episode is focused on the different needs each partner may have related to socializing and family time. The topics addressed include:
◦ Connection with people when it's within your partners capacity.

◦ Bowing out of planned events and experiencing questioning and disappointment from family members when they don't understand.
◦ Experiencing anxiety when asking for your needs to be met.
◦ When you aren’t “out” to everyone in your family about being neurodivergent.
◦ Having a specific role at family events can be very important to help get connection to self.
◦ The importance of downtime and a transition period.
◦ Understanding what each partner needs during socializing.
◦ Social differences are not deficits.
◦ Plan and prepare beforehand, so you know what is coming and what the expectations are.
◦ Having an exit plan and having support around that is important.
◦ Needing a way for self-soothing, alone time and recovery.
◦ Running late because you may not understand each others needs.
◦ Taking separate cars to an event can be helpful.
◦ Reducing anxiety by planning and preparing together, then debrief after the event to learn what you can each do better in the future.
◦ Including both "open" and "down" time into the socializing event can be helpful. May also want to schedule in time for your partners special interest.
◦ Remember that everyone wants to be seen, known, valued and understood.
◦ Past relational trauma may impact decision making around socializing and date nights.
◦ Family time with kids can also be challenging because the “expectations” may never stop.
◦ Be aware of sensory overload or overstimulation.
◦ Understanding that change of plans may be difficult and lead to anger or irritability.
◦ Develop habits and rituals around communication.
◦ Make sure your autistic partner has time for recovery.
◦ Understand your capacity and how much you can socialize based on the stress you have experienced that day.
If you would like to contact Greg Fuqua, please check out his website at: www.gregfuqua.com