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For many educators, the beginning of the school year brings excitement. For autistic, ADHD, and AuDHD teachers, it can feel like being flung from months of hard-earned peace into instant chaos.
In this episode, Dr. Allison Sucamele explores the psychology behind why back-to-school season can overwhelm the neurodivergent nervous system. From cognitive load, executive functioning, and decision fatigue to sensory overload, masking, context switching, and autistic burnout, you'll learn why the avalanche of meetings, trainings, insurance enrollment, classroom setup, and endless decisions can leave you exhausted before students even arrive.
More importantly, this episode offers research-informed strategies for protecting your nervous system, reducing unnecessary demands, and approaching the school year with greater self-compassion. If you're sitting in your classroom surrounded by unopened boxes, unfinished bulletin boards, and an overflowing inbox, this conversation is your reminder that your overwhelm isn't a personal failure—it's a human response to extraordinary demands.
Whether you're an educator or anyone navigating major life transitions, this episode will help you understand why regulation—not perfection—is the foundation for sustainable success.
Disclaimer
Quietly Autistic at Last is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or mental health care. Every autistic, ADHD, and AuDHD experience is unique, and the perspectives shared in this podcast reflect research as well as lived experience.
Need Immediate Support?
If you are in the United States and experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you are outside the U.S., please contact your local emergency services or crisis hotline.
Resources
• Kristen Neff – Self-Compassion Research & Resources: Kristen Neff, Ph.D.
• Follow Quietly Autistic at Last Podcast on Instagram for episode updates, resources, and community: @quietlyautisticatlastpodcast
