To learn about other ways parents of children with autism can deal with stress by becoming better educated and equipped to deal with any number of autism topics, go to www.myarchway.org

1.Contact a counselor that deals with stress if needed.

2. Contact an appropriate special needs advocacy/support organization.

3. Access babysitters, after school programs, camps or respite care. (find out what your county and state developmental disability agencies offer)

4. Spend time alone with spouse. Find some space for this!

5. Reward yourself for parenting efforts to maintain motivation.

6. Make a list of the rewards of parenting a child with special needs which are long and many!

7. Spend time alone for 20 minutes a day.

-Walk in nature, enjoy a hobby, watch a comedy video, or practice any technique that promotes the relaxation response such as:

-During any repetitive exercise such as walking, swimming, or running, repeat your “focus word” or phrase with each step or stroke.

-Practice any of the many forms of meditation; repetitive forms of prayer elicit the relaxation response ; singing and chanting your focus word or phrase, either silently or out loud, will elicit the relaxation response. Read“Timeless Healing” by Herbert Benson, M.D.

-Deep diaphragmatic breathing with a focus on the breath, can trigger the relaxation response.

-Progressive muscle relaxation techniques, where you alternately contract and then relax each muscle group moving progressively from head to toe, will elicit the benefits of the relaxation response.

8. Deep massage while focusing on your word or phrase can also be effective.

9. Biofeedback can elicit the relaxation response and increase alpha waves.

10. Hypnosis with post hypnotic suggestions for relaxation can also be effective.

11. Getting organized with paperwork; leave slack in schedule; prepare ahead and have contingency plan; develop a “tolerance zone” (anticipate).