# The Neurodivergent Christmas Survival Guide: Dr Alison Lennox on Family, Burnout & Boundaries

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-hidden-20-6751677/the-neurodivergent-christmas-survival-guide-dr-alison-lennox-on-family-burnout-boundaries
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-hidden-20-6751677/the-neurodivergent-christmas-survival-guide-dr-alison-lennox-on-family-burnout-boundaries.md
Podcast: [The Hidden 20%](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-hidden-20-6751677)
Published: 2025-12-10T05:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://shows.acast.com/hidden-20/episodes/the-neurodivergent-christmas-survival-guide-dr-alison-lennox
Audio file: https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/657b32c48f98e20016664592/e/693852f2e521382d957e5b36/media.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/the-hidden-20-6751677/episodes/the-neurodivergent-christmas-survival-guide-dr-alison-lennox-on-family-burnout-boundaries
Duration seconds: 3542

## Resource

Christmas is often described as joyful, but for many neurodivergent people it can be overwhelming, exhausting and full of hidden pressure. In this special episode, Dr Alison Lennox returns to unpack why the festive season can feel so challenging - and how preparation, boundaries and regulation strategies can make a huge difference. Ben and Alison discuss sensory overload, disrupted routines, family expectations, social fatigue and the pressure to “perform” throughout December. Alison shares practical, compassionate advice on preparing for gatherings, setting boundaries ahead of time, creating exit plans, managing burnout, supporting ND children, and finding small moments to regulate even in busy environments. Whether you look forward to Christmas or quietly dread it, this episode gives permission to approach the season differently - with clarity, self-compassion and a plan that puts your wellbeing first. CW: This episode contains discussion of mental health crisis, overwhelm and emotional distress, particularly around the festive period. If you are struggling, in emotional distress or feel unsafe, please reach out: Samaritans (24/7) - Call 116 123 or visit https://www.samaritans.org Shout Crisis Textline - Text SHOUT to 85258 Mind – https://www.mind.org.uk NHS 111 (urgent mental health support) – https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E. ________ If you would like to support us this Christmas please consider gifting from the below link to spread awareness and carry on the conversation: https://www.hidden20.org/christmas-grotto Host: Ben Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg Head of Marketing: Kristen F…

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