Change of Seasons

I know it sounds weird, but the change of seasons affect autistic children.  Mine is especially throw off by the daylight savings change in the fall.  It means darkness falls much earlier, which means anxiety grows more daily.  He hates the dark, all of it, everything from a room, a basement or even the outside.  Getting home before dark this time of year is much more difficult.  Have I found ways to help this, not really.  We still have to leave a light on at night, he doesn't leave the house after dark.  He might sit out side at a bon fire, but it's certainly not without much stress for him.  Even if it just got dark, he won't go out to the car. 

The other thing that happens is his mood becomes much more depressed.  My doctor says that the sunshine has a part to play in this.  A couple of winters ago we acquired and invested in a light therapy box with help.   My son would sit under it for a bit everyday to replace the sunshine he was missing.  It worked, somewhat.  The timing of when and how much takes a bit to play with, but it's an idea for you to mention to your doctor is you are struggling with some depressive issues during the winter. 

The last thing that causes problems in the fall is sickness.  Although we are very careful washing our hands, it's cold and flu season.  Our world changes so quickly if my son gets sick.  Every effort it takes for him to function on any given day, is redirected to handling a runny nose, congestion or a sore throat. It means much more drama, situations, and stress.  Most of the time it's simple stuff that throws him for a loop.  I drag him to his appointments to keep things moving in the right direction, but let's just say life takes on much more effort for us both.

I know this is a short blog, however, it is the change of seasons.  My life has changed with the time change and my son has a cold.  So, yes, life is more difficult and delicate.  That's just the way it is. 
I draw strength from heaven.  I know it's a season and I just move on.  This too will pass.
These are the seasons that require the use of those gifts of respites I spoke of recently.    Be sure to check out my blog on living without the chaos if you don't understand.

Thanks for stopping by,


Lynne