Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist and NAPAA Co-founder) When tragedies involving disabled people and their families occur, many of us feel an urgent pull to respond. Grief, anger, fear, helplessness, and a deep sense of injustice can surface all at once. For advocates, professionals, and community members who care deeply about disability rights and systemic failures, silence can feel uncomfortable — even complicit. The instinct to speak, to explain, to demand chang

Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) When tragic events occur in the world, many parents notice their neurodivergent child becoming deeply distressed — even when the event happened far away, involved people they’ve never met, or was encountered indirectly through news or conversation. This response can be confusing or concerning for carers, particularly when the child’s reaction feels more intense than expected. It’s not uncommon for parents to wonder whether their c

We are deeply saddened by the violent events in Bondi today. Our thoughts are with those who were harmed, their loved ones and everyone in the community impacted by this tragedy. We recognise that events like this can be especially distressing for neurodivergent people and those with lived experience of trauma. Please take care of yourselves, and seek support if you need it. NAPAA stands with our community in grief and solidarity.

Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) In recent years, there has been growing awareness of the need to make events more inclusive for neurodivergent attendees. One key feature that can significantly improve accessibility is the provision of a low sensory space. These spaces aren’t a luxury or an afterthought - they are an essential part of fostering neuroaffirming environments. Example of a Low Sensory Room prepared at the 2025 AAPi conference at the Grand Hyatt Hotel

Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo For many neurodivergent individuals (NDs), education isn’t just about learning – it’s about surviving an environment that was never designed with us in mind. When you add cultural expectations and systemic rigidity to the mix, the experience can feel doubly alienating. I was raised and educated in Asia (Malaysia, specifically), where rote learning wasn’t just common – it was the foundation of the entire system. By the time we were in the upper y

Burnout is a word we often associate with work stress, but for neurodivergent people - e.g., autistic, ADHDers, dyspraxic, etc., - it can hit differently. Neurodivergent burnout is not just about being “a bit tired” or needing a holiday. It’s a state of deep physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion, often after weeks, months or even years of masking, coping and pushing through environments that don’t fit. If you’re close to someone who is neurodivergent, here are some signs

Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Have you ever found yourself totally fixated on someone you’re into - checking your phone every few minutes, imagining entire conversations or future scenarios, and feeling like your mood rises and falls based on whether they’ve noticed you? You’re not just “being dramatic.” You might be experiencing something called limerence  - a very intense and emotionally consuming form of romantic attraction. And if you’re someone with ADHD

Not everyone feels safe or ready to disclose neurodivergence at work - and that’s okay.  In an ideal world, we’d all be working in roles,...

Discover how neuroaffirming hairdressers support sensory-sensitive and neurodivergent clients through respectful, flexible and consent-based salon practices. Learn what inclusive hairdressing looks like and why it matters.

For many neurodivergent folks (NDs), experiencing low motivation, exhaustion or emotional flatness can be a regular part of life. But...

In our Celebrating Neuro-Affirming Professionals Series, each resource spotlights a different profession making a difference in the...

Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) For many neurodivergent individuals (NDs), a new special interest can feel like an all-consuming obsession. The excitement and enthusiasm that come with diving into a new hobby or passion are often exhilarating, as we immerse ourselves in something we truly enjoy.  However, as rewarding as these moments can be, they can also come with some financial pitfalls. When a special interest is fleeting, we may find ourselves left with an

In our Celebrating Neuro-Affirming Professionals Series, each resource spotlights a different profession making a difference in the...

By Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Alexithymia, or difficulty identifying and describing one's own emotions in real time, can present unique challenges in romantic relationships — both for the person experiencing it and their partner. In this recorded talk from the Neurodiverse Love Conference , I explore how alexithymia influences communication, emotional intimacy, and relationship dynamics. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself, in a relationship with someone who is, or

After countless cups of coffee, endless late nights and plenty of heartfelt moments, we're thrilled to finally announce: the NAPAA...