Self-Compassion, Sensory Needs & Connection
Sometimes looking after ourselves means noticing what we need, making space for difficult feelings and allowing ourselves to do things differently.
These resources explore self-compassion, sensory needs, burnout, relationships, loneliness, grief and change.
Take what feels useful and leave anything that doesn’t.
Self-Compassion & Self-Worth
We can sometimes be harder on ourselves than we are on others.
Self-compassion means learning to treat ourselves with kindness, especially when life feels difficult.
Helpful resources
NHS – Raising low self-esteem
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/raise-low-self-esteem/
Mind – Self-care
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/self-care/
Self-Compassion – Dr Kristin Neff
https://self-compassion.org/
Creative ideas
- Make affirmation cards
- Create a kindness journal
- Design a collage celebrating who you are
Sensory Needs & Burnout
Sensory overload, masking and everyday demands can leave us feeling exhausted.
Recognising our needs and allowing ourselves time to rest is important.
Helpful resources
National Autistic Society – Sensory processing
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/about-autism/sensory-processing
National Autistic Society – Autistic fatigue and burnout
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/mental-health/autistic-fatigue
Scottish Autism
https://www.scottishautism.org/
Creative ideas
- Create a sensory toolkit
- Make an energy map
- Try a quiet painting or colouring activity
Relationships, Loneliness & Connection
Loneliness can affect us even when we have people around us.
We all deserve relationships where we feel accepted, understood and able to be ourselves.
Helpful resources
Samaritans – Feeling lonely
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/if-youre-having-difficult-time/if-youre-feeling-lonely/
Mind – Useful contacts for loneliness
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/loneliness/useful-contacts/
Relate – Relationship support
https://www.relate.org.uk/
Creative ideas
- Make a connection map
- Create a friendship bracelet
- Write an unsent letter to explore your feelings
Grief, Change & Difficult Life Transitions
Bereavement, diagnosis, relationship changes and other life transitions can bring complicated emotions.
There is no right way to grieve or adjust, and you do not need to rush your feelings.
Helpful resources
Cruse Bereavement Support
https://www.cruse.org.uk/
GOV.UK – Bereavement help and support
https://www.gov.uk/after-a-death/bereavement-help-and-support
Samaritans
https://www.samaritans.org/
Cruse can be contacted on 0808 808 1677. You can also use the contact options on its website to ask about support.
Creative ideas
- Create a memory box
- Make an artwork representing the seasons of your life
- Design a “one step at a time” path
Creative Activities for Wellbeing
Creativity is not about perfection or productivity.
It can be a way to express yourself, explore your interests or spend time doing something you enjoy.
You could try:
- Colouring
- Journalling
- Collage
- Crochet
- Paper flowers
- Origami
- Painting
- Making affirmation cards
You can adapt activities to suit your energy and sensory needs, take breaks or stop whenever you wish.
Need More Support?
These resources are intended to complement professional support, not replace it.
If you are struggling, you deserve help, and you do not have to wait until things become unbearable before reaching out.
Create & Chatter is here to encourage creativity, connection and community without judgement.
Safe. Seen. Supported. Included.
Create & Chatter resources are intended for general information and wellbeing support. They do not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or mental health support. Please choose what feels right for you and seek professional support if you are concerned about your physical or mental health.
Need more support? View UK helplines and support →