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When Tragedy Strikes: Ethical Reflections on Public Discourse, Advocacy and Care
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
Feb 33 min read


When the World Hurts: Supporting Neurodivergent Youth to Process Tragic News
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
Dec 15, 20254 min read


Why Low Sensory Spaces Matter at Major Events
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
Oct 22, 20253 min read


How to Advocate for Yourself in Medical Appointments Without Burning Out
By Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Medical appointments can be draining for anyone, but for neurodivergent people, they can be especially overwhelming. Between navigating communication differences, explaining complex health histories, and managing sensory overload, many of us leave appointments feeling unheard, dismissed - or simply exhausted. Advocating for yourself shouldn't come at the cost of your energy, dignity, or mental health. Here are some strategies to help you p
Aug 28, 20253 min read


How to Support a Loved One Through Neurodivergent Burnout
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
Jul 30, 20253 min read


Navigating Workplace Accommodations Without Disclosing Neurodivergence
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,...
Jun 10, 20254 min read


Bored, Stretched Thin or Depressed? Making Sense of Low Energy States as a Neurodivergent Person
For many neurodivergent folks (NDs), experiencing low motivation, exhaustion or emotional flatness can be a regular part of life. But...
May 27, 20254 min read


New Special Interests Don't Have to Break Your Bank: Here's How
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
May 13, 20254 min read


Alexithymia & Romantic Relationships: Understanding Emotional Disconnect & Connection
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
Apr 29, 20251 min read


Behind the Scenes at NAPAA: Celebrating Our Directory Launch!
After countless cups of coffee, endless late nights and plenty of heartfelt moments, we're thrilled to finally announce: the NAPAA...
Apr 15, 20252 min read


Navigating Love After Social Exhaustion: How to Maintain Connection When Your Energy is Drained
Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) For many humans, especially neurodivergent (ND) individuals, social energy isn’t a constant...
Apr 8, 20255 min read


Empowering Neurodivergent Children: The Crucial Role of Early Body Safety and Consent Education
Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Trigger Alert: This article discusses topics related to sexual safety and abuse, which may...
Apr 2, 20254 min read


Daylight Saving and Neurodivergence: What You Need to Know
Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo For those fortunate enough to not really need to know what it is (hello, northern half of Australia),...
Mar 25, 20253 min read


Pain Perception in Neurodivergent Individuals: When Pain Signals Get Scrambled
Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Understanding the Neurodivergent Pain Experience Pain is something that most of us would...
Mar 18, 20255 min read


When Words Don’t Cooperate: Navigating Verbal Communication Struggles as a Neurodivergent Psychologist
Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Verbal communication is a central part of my work as a psychologist. I spend my days...
Feb 22, 20255 min read


Understanding Dyspraxia or Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)
Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), commonly known as dyspraxia, is a...
Feb 16, 20253 min read


Hyper-Independence is a Complex Trauma Response
Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Hyper-independence is a response to complex trauma. Many neurodivergent individuals (NDs)...
Feb 14, 20253 min read


How to Create Neuro-Inclusive Office Spaces
Workplaces are increasingly recognising the importance of diversity and inclusion, yet neurodivergent (ND) employees often face barriers...
Feb 9, 20253 min read


The Double-Edged Sword of Hyperfocus in Neurodivergent Individuals
Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Hyperfocus is a phenomenon frequently experienced by neurodivergent individuals (NDs),...
Feb 9, 20254 min read


How AI Can Support Students with Learning Difficulties and Disabilities
By Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist) Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising education, making learning more accessible and...
Feb 6, 20253 min read
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