If you're autistic, or supporting someone who is, you may have heard the term autistic burnout. But what does it really mean? How is it different from everyday stress or general exhaustion? And most importantly, how can we support ourselves or others through it?

At Living Dreams Disability Services, we’re often asked questions like:

• “How can we fix this behaviour?”

• “Will therapy make it go away?”

We understand where these questions come from. When you love someone, you want them to thrive. You want things to feel easier, smoother, more manageable. But here’s something we gently emphasise in our work: our role isn’t to fix people. It’s to support them in becoming more confident, empowered, and comfortable with who they are.

That’s where a strength-based approach comes in.

Daylight savings time can be a challenging transition, especially for neurodivergent individuals who thrive on routine and predictability. The sudden shift in time can disrupt sleep, affect mood, and make it harder to regulate emotions. Whether you're a neurodivergent adult navigating the change yourself or a parent supporting a child through it, here are some strategies to make the adjustment smoother.

The way we access mental health support is evolving, and telehealth psychology is at the forefront of this transformation. With the rise of digital platforms, more people are turning to online therapy for its accessibility and convenience. But how effective is it compared to traditional face-to-face therapy? Let’s explore the benefits and potential challenges of telehealth psychology and why it can be just as impactful as in-person sessions..

In a world that often measures worth by external achievements, the practice of self-validation can be life-changing. Many of us seek reassurance from others to feel valued, but what if we learned to validate ourselves instead? Self-validation is the ability to acknowledge and accept our own emotions, thoughts, and experiences without needing external approval. It’s a vital skill that fosters resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being.

Bringing a new baby into the world is often portrayed as a time of joy and love, but for many parents, it can also come with overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, or even fear. If you or someone you know is struggling with postpartum depression (PPD) or anxiety, it’s important to know that you are not alone—and that help is available.

For many people, mornings can be tough. If you live with mental illness, disability, or are neurodivergent, the pressure to have a "perfect" morning routine can feel overwhelming. You might struggle with fatigue, executive dysfunction, chronic pain, or just the weight of getting started. And that’s okay!

Getting a good night’s sleep can be challenging, especially for neurodivergent individuals. Difficulty unwinding, sensory sensitivities, and hyperactive thoughts can all make falling and staying asleep harder. But with the right strategies, you can create a sleep routine that works for your unique needs.

Here are some neurodivergent-friendly sleep tips to help you get the rest you deserve..

When it comes to treating mental illness and supporting individuals with disabilities, a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works.

At Living Dreams Disability Services, we embrace a multi-disciplinary model that integrates psychology, adaptive special needs active therapy, dietetics, and occupational therapy to provide comprehensive support for our clients.

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be overwhelming, especially for families who are new to the system. With so much information available, it’s essential to find trustworthy resources that empower you to make informed decisions.

To help you on this journey, we’ve curated a list of top resources designed to guide families through the NDIS process and support your loved one’s needs.

Have you ever set a goal, felt super motivated, and then found yourself struggling to stick to it a few weeks later? You’re not alone! Whether it’s eating healthier, moving more, or managing stress, many of us start strong but lose momentum because our goals don’t fit our lives or feel too overwhelming.

The good news? There’s a way to set goals that actually work. It’s all about making them personal and realistic, something you can genuinely see yourself doing.

As a parent, you want to give your child the best possible start in life. When developmental challenges arise, early intervention can play a pivotal role in setting your child on a path to success. By addressing concerns early, you provide your child with the tools they need to thrive both now and in the future.

Here are practical tips to help families and caregivers make the most of the NDIS.

For families and caregivers supporting a loved one with a disability, navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel overwhelming at first. However, with the right guidance and preparation, the NDIS can become a valuable tool for accessing essential resources and support. In Brisbane, a city known for its inclusive approach, many families are successfully leveraging the NDIS to enhance quality of life for their loved ones.

Here are practical tips to help families and caregivers make the most of the NDIS.

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition that affects how individuals perceive themselves, relate to others, and manage their emotions. It’s a misunderstood and often stigmatized disorder, but with the right support and treatment, individuals with BPD can lead fulfilling lives.

Navigating life’s challenges can be overwhelming, but with a strong support network, we’re better equipped to handle whatever comes our way. For people living with disabilities, having a community that offers understanding, encouragement, and practical assistance is especially vital. In Brisbane, a city known for its inclusive spirit, building and nurturing a support network can make a world of difference.

The holiday season can be a magical time filled with joy, connection, and celebration. However, for many, it’s also one of the most stressful times of the year. With shopping lists, social events, financial pressure, and family dynamics to navigate, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help you not only survive but thrive during this busy season.

Parenting is a journey filled with love, challenges, and growth. For parents of children with special needs, this journey often comes with unique experiences that require patience, understanding, and tailored strategies. Positive parenting focuses on fostering a supportive and nurturing environment that empowers children to reach their potential while strengthening family bonds.

In this post, we’ll explore effective positive parenting strategies for children with special needs and highlight resources available in Brisbane for family support.

Growing up with a sibling who has a disability can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. While the bond between siblings can be incredibly strong, the unique dynamics in families of children with disabilities can sometimes leave siblings feeling overlooked or unsure about their role. By acknowledging and addressing their emotional needs, we can ensure these children thrive alongside their sibling with a disability.

Advancements in technology have transformed how we interact with our homes, making daily living more convenient, safe, and accessible. For individuals with disabilities, smart home devices provide a new level of independence and control over their environment. These technologies can bridge gaps in accessibility, offering practical solutions to everyday challenges.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how smart home devices can enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and highlight some of the most useful technologies available today.

Engaging in recreational activities and hobbies is a vital aspect of life for everyone, including individuals with disabilities. Beyond simply providing enjoyment, recreational activities promote social interaction, mental well-being, physical health, and the development of new skills. In a city like Brisbane, with its vibrant community and access to inclusive programs, individuals with disabilities have numerous opportunities to explore and engage in meaningful pastimes.

In this blog post, we highlight some of the best recreational activities and hobbies for individuals with disabilities, focusing on accessibility, adaptability, and enjoyment.