Christmas is often described as joyful, but for many neurodivergent people it can be overwhelming, exhausting and full of hidden pressure. In this special episode, Dr Alison Lennox returns to unpack why the festive season can feel so challenging - and how preparation, boundaries and regulation strategies can make a huge difference.
Ben and Alison discuss sensory overload, disrupted routines, family expectations, social fatigue and the pressure to “perform” throughout December. Alison shares practical, compassionate advice on preparing for gatherings, setting boundaries ahead of time, creating exit plans, managing burnout, supporting ND children, and finding small moments to regulate even in busy environments.
Whether you look forward to Christmas or quietly dread it, this episode gives permission to approach the season differently - with clarity, self-compassion and a plan that puts your wellbeing first.
CW: This episode contains discussion of mental health crisis, overwhelm and emotional distress, particularly around the festive period.
If you are struggling, in emotional distress or feel unsafe, please reach out:
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If you would like to support us this Christmas please consider gifting from the below link to spread awareness and carry on the conversation:
https://www.hidden20.org/christmas-grotto
Host: Ben Branson
Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné
Video Editor: James Scriven
Social Media Manager: Charlie Young
Music: Jackson Greenberg
Head of Marketing: Kristen Fuller
00:00 Introduction
00:47 Being Neurodivergent at Christmas: Why the Festive Season Is Hard
3:34 Family Expectations, Routines and Holiday Pressure
5:00 Why the Festive Season Can Be Overwhelming for ND People
6:03 First Christmas After an ND Diagnosis: Handling Difficult Family Reactions
10:24 Setting Boundaries Without Guilt & Planning Ahead to Reduce Holiday Stress
14:40 Setting Boundaries Without Shame: ND Social Masking & Avoiding Burnout
25:25 How to Support Neurodivergent Children at Christmas
30:30 Dr Alison’s Top Tips for Setting Healthy Boundaries
34:42 Dr Alison’s Festive Advice for ADHD’ers on Medication
36:00 Alcohol vs Neurodivergent Brains
39:50 The Importance of Preparation for ND Regulation at Christmas
42:39 Managing Sensory Overload & Navigating Christmas Traditions
45:54 What ND People Can Do If They or a Loved One Are in Distress
48:03 Dr Alison’s Final Words of Advice: Q&A From Our Listeners
The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson.
Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.
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1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.
To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.
With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.
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Dr Alison Lennox https://www.dralisonlennox.com/
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The Hidden 20%