It is very common for individuals who are autistic or who have ADHD to fidget a lot. Whilst it may frustrate those around them, they do not do it to purposely annoy or others and can't help it most of the time. We are now going to look into some of the reasons why they may fidget and things you can do to support them.

Many people with the conditions, particularly ADHD, have lots of energy that they struggle to suppress. This results in them needing to find ways to use their energy, and it also can help them to concentrate or focus on something. It is understandable that fidgeting can distract others, but it can also help the individual to not get angry, anxious, stressed, or feeling tired. The ADHD brain is often hyperactive, and therefore, due to this wave of activity, individuals need to find ways of helping themselves. Many of these individuals suffer with anxiety and this is common in relation to fidgeting.

By fidgeting, it can help them regulate themselves and make themselves more comfortable in an uncomfortable situation. Many of these individuals do not even know when they are fidgeting and therefore cannot help their actions if they are unaware of them doing it in the first place. Using things like fidget spinners or alternative items can really help someone with these conditions to focus, not get distracted on other things, and be more productive.

Please try to understand that fidgeting can be a regular occurrence for neurodivergent individuals and they can't help it, or by having your support, they will be able to be themselves more freely without judgement. We will delve more into this in future blogs, as there are many more examples we can give on this subject and feel this can be useful to know.