FAQautism

Several young adults diagnosed with autism have drummed up the courage to submit comments about a taboo topic: underwear. Individuals with marked sensory issue often struggle to find clothing, socks, and shoes that are comfortable. Underwear is, of course, an important consideration for people with tactile sensitivities.

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The two brave souls who took time to write about their underwear issues came from opposite perspectives. One wrote about being overly sensitive to touch and the other wrote about the need for the deep pressure offered by confining clothing. Both shared their frustrations as well as some solutions.

(1) Baggy Sweats. Some individuals with autism are ultra-sensitive to touch, and prefer loose, cotton knit clothing. The young lady who bravely shared her thoughts about underwear said that she prefers to wear baggy sweats and skirts to avoid uncomfortable, tight underwear. Some of my friends with autism, even young ladies, have started wearing knit boxer-style underwear rather than briefs or panties because traditional underwear is uncomfortable.

(2) Deep Pressure. In contrast to the “baggy sweats” crowd, some people with autism prefer confining clothing that stays in place and offers necessary tactile pressure. This sensory issue is often addressed in classrooms with weighted vests, textured chair cushions, and other deep pressure objects. An adult with autism wrote their need for secure, confining undergarments. Their solution was to wear Depends. They said that people around them probably would not understand why they wore “diapers,” so they kept their underwear issues secret. But this courageous person wanted to share the diaper idea with other people who have tactile issue related to autism. People of all ages who have a need for secure, comfortable, fitted clothing might want to try this rather unusual, but innovative solution.

The issue of underwear underscores the fact that autism impacts every aspect of a person’s life and that a single solution is not always viable for all situations. Our mission at FAQautism.com is to help raise the awareness of the complexity of autism and to share practical solutions that improve the quality of life of people with autism and those around them. We welcome your ideas and input. Just click on the “comments” button or send us an e-mail: talk@FAQautism.com.

NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me an email with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. Send email to talk@FAQautism.com And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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