If you're interested in care assistant jobs in Southampton, there are many roles that involve supporting people with autism in life-changing ways.
Feelings of anxiousness, being overwhelmed and overloaded are some of the most challenging aspects for someone living with autism. This is precisely why it is so important that people with autism are properly supported by knowledgeable support workers who can employ proven strategies designed to calm and soothe.
It is important to be able to identify signs that a person with autism is experiencing overload because they may not be able to tell you themselves that they are starting to become anxious, upset or overwhelmed. Outward signs of overload may include withdrawing from situations, sensory seeking behaviours, repetitive behaviours, and sensory avoidance.
In addition to identifying the signs, it is also crucial to understand which activities or strategies are likely to help calm the person experiencing overload. If you are thinking about applying for care assistant jobs in Southampton that involve supporting people with autism, here are five valuable strategies that may help a person with autism in an overwhelming situation.
1. Suggest an 'escape plan'
Sometimes a person with autism may simply need to leave a particular space to reduce stimulation and regain control over their sense of self. So, it is important that they know that leaving a situation is OK if it will help them to feel calm. A person may wish to go to their bedroom or other safe space and partake in a specific activity that they find calming. This might include reading aloud to themselves or listening to music, but they may also prefer to sit in silence for a little while.
2. Encourage the practice of meditation techniques
Practising meditation and mindfulness can be an excellent way to promote feelings of calm and control. Creating a safe space for an autistic person to sit, close their eyes and practise breathing deeply can be an extraordinarily grounding activity that will restore their sense of calm and serenity. Importantly, meditation doesn't need to solely be a sitting activity. Walking meditation, for example, involves finding a quiet place where a person can walk slowly and really focus on the sensations associated with the movement.
3. Introduce the practice of mindfulness
As meditation isn't for everyone, there are also a variety of other mindful activities that may be suitable. Mindful activities include colouring in a colouring book, connecting with nature, reciting positive affirmations and practising yoga, but there are many other possibilities. The key to mindfulness is finding an activity that resonates with each individual and gives them space to let go of their anxious feelings and welcome calm.
4. Employ distraction techniques
Distraction certainly isn't a strategy that will be beneficial all the time but, in certain situations, sometimes a person with autism will respond well to having their attention diverted from a source of overwhelm to a source of neutrality or calm. For some, this might include talking about a subject they are passionate about while, for others, distraction may come in the form of some short videos or watching their favourite TV show.
5. Encourage exercise
Physical activity can help to alleviate feelings of anxiety and stress for everyone, including service users with autism. It may be beneficial to create a short exercise routine and consistently practice it when feelings of overwhelm start to set in. Alternatively, a person may wish to play a particular game or simply go for a brisk walk to take their mind off the difficult situation.
The key is to suggest activities or strategies that each individual will respond well to. It is worth having a selection of options to choose from, as feelings of overwhelm can range from mild to severe depending on the situation. Sometimes a person with autism may feel so distressed that calming techniques won't seem to be at all effective. At times like this, it is often most beneficial to give the person time to process the situation and offer reassurance.
Are you considering applying for care assistant jobs in Southampton?
There are a variety of care assistant jobs in Southampton, all of which will allow you to make a tangible difference to the lives of other people within your local area. Ensuring that people with autism receive the correct level of support will empower them to live fulfilled lives and provide them with an environment that allows them to utilise their skills and talents in meaningful ways.