Stimming

• When the person you provide care to is overstimulated or finds themselves feeling uncomfortable or overwhelmed, they may use stimming behaviours.

What is stimming?

Stimming is a series or repetitive actions or movements. The person living with Autism may stim when they feel excited, anxious or afraid. Stimming helps the person you care for to cope with a situation they may find overwhelming.

Should stimming be reduced or prevented?

No. If the type of stimming is not harmful to the person you provide care to or other people (such as violent behaviours) then there is no need to reduce or prevent this. Stimming helps the person to cope with their environment, feelings and emotions. And as the caregiver, stimming can help you to know when the individual may be uncomfortable and need you to help or support them. For example in a crowded place if the individual with autism is anxious, they may begin to stim. This will let you know they may find the situation overwhelming and you can help them to feel safer.

• Stimming (or self-stimulating behaviours) include but are not limited to: