In this episode of a different brilliant®, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey is joined by Belinda Duncombe, Teacher and Leader of Learning and Wellbeing at Aspect South East Sydney School, and Louise Farrugia, Occupational Therapist at Aspect Therapy, to explore dysregulation and what it can look and feel like for Autistic people.

Together, they unpack how sensory, cognitive, social and communication demands can build throughout the day, sometimes leading to overwhelm, shutdown or other responses. They discuss why dysregulation is not simply behaviour that appears “out of nowhere”, but can be the nervous system communicating that things have become too much.

Drawing on their experience in education and occupational therapy, Belinda and Louise share practical ways families, educators and professionals can support regulation. From understanding an individual’s sensory profile and recognising early signs of overwhelm, to increasing predictability, reducing demands and creating supportive environments, the conversation highlights why knowing the individual is so important.

Whether you’re an Autistic person, parent or carer, educator, allied health professional or someone wanting to better understand dysregulation, this episode offers practical insights into creating environments where Autistic people can feel safe, supported and able to participate in the things that matter to them.

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Further resources

Regulation: supporting Autistic students: https://www.aspect.org.au/blog/regulation-supporting-autistic-students

Supporting sensory needs: https://www.aspect.org.au/resource-library/sensory-needs

Autism and Behaviour: Positive Behaviour Support: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/therapy-services/positive-behaviour-support

Structured supports: https://www.aspect.org.au/resource-library/structured-supports