Showers and baths

Neurodivergent people sometimes struggle with personal hygiene. I’ve heard people talk about the difficulties in getting ready to shower, with all the steps this entails. Finding the right soap products, clean towels and fresh clothes. Dreading the process of getting undressed, getting under the water, washing and drying, and getting dressed again. It can feel like a real challenge to transition from one task to another.

Some people find that once they are under the water they really don’t want to come out again. They can easily lose track of time and get lost in the experience, enjoying the sensation of warm water on their skin. This can lead to long expensive showers and baths and a lot of wasted time and money, not to mention lateness, bathroom hogging and feelings of guilt and stress.

Baths can be even more challenging when sitting in hot water can cause nausea and headaches. When we don’t have a choice, bathing or showering can seem like a huge hurdle to overcome. Anxiety, depression and sensory overwhelm can also make the situation worse. I have come across a few tips to help us cope with the routine of getting clean without getting too stressed.

Plan your shower for a relaxed time of day if you can. Slow down and have your clean clothes and towels on standby before you start. Buy affordable soap and products that inspire you and smell good, placing them within easy reach. Make sure the water temperature is just right and you have enough warm water available to you. Some people love a cold shower, or they turn the water cold at the end which can give a boost to the immune system, and help mental health. Set a timer or decide a play list that lasts for the amount of time you need. When the last song plays it’s time to get out.

Personal hygiene is vital for our health and well-being as well as our relationships with family, friends and colleagues. But we can learn new ways of doing things that might seem easy to others.