08 Neurodivergent at Christmas: ADHD, Autism & Festive Overwhelm

Christmas can be joyful — and overwhelming.

In this episode of Late to Know, we explore what the festive season can feel like for adults with ADHD and autism (AuDHD), and why Christmas often amplifies overwhelm, sensory stress, emotional exhaustion, and people-pleasing.

This episode also marks a gentle shift for the podcast — now focused on adults with ADHD, after hearing from men and women alike who recognise themselves in these experiences.

Whether you’re neurodivergent or you love someone who is, this episode offers insight into:

• Why Christmas is especially challenging for ADHD & autistic nervous systems
• The most common festive stressors reported by neurodivergent adults
• How sensory overload, decision fatigue, & emotional pressure show up
• Personal reflections and reminders to help move through the season with more compassion
• Research-backed guidance to reduce overwhelm and protect energy
• Practical ways neurotypical partners, family, and friends can better understand and support their loved ones

This episode isn’t about doing Christmas “right” — it’s about understanding different nervous systems and creating a season that works better for everyone.

🎧 If the holidays feel like too much, you’re not alone — and understanding can change everything.

SHOW NOTES & RESOURCES

ADHD, Autism & the Festive Season

• • ADDitude Magazine – ADHD, holidays, emotional regulation & burnout https://www.additudemag.com
  • National Autistic Society (UK) – Sensory overload, routines & seasonal change https://www.autism.org.uk
  • Autistica – Autism, stress, nervous system regulation & adult wellbeing https://www.autistica.org.uk

Executive Function, Decision Fatigue & Overwhelm

• • Dr Russell A. Barkley, PhD – ADHD and self-regulation research https://www.russellbarkley.org

🌻 Advocacy & Invisible Disabilities

• • Hidden Disabilities Sunflower – Support for invisible disabilities https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com