This past year has been a learning experience. I have been trying to understand why I feel the way I do at certain times. I am exploring different reasons for this or that. It took finding that oftentimes interception interferes, not giving me a strong enough signal. This stops me from knowing what I need to be content and how to keep a regulated mood.

For a very long time, I was unwilling. I did not realize how much interception plays a part in my mind. I didn’t think I needed things like having a snack, hydrating, or using the restroom. These actions can play a big part in my mood being regulated. They also affect my ability to do what’s asked or needed of me.

It is not that one thing that is not clearly understood when it comes to being autistic. Often, I become disgruntled with those I feel safe around. I then realize that something isn’t right with me. It can be that a snack, drink, or toilet trip can make me feel better. Taking time to take care of me can make all the difference in my mood. I feel better and it prevents me from being dysregulated. It helps me see the whole picture. This awareness helps me avoid taking things out on others because I am in a bad mood.

It is hard sometimes to realize that caring for myself is necessary. I often only recognize this need when it becomes detrimental or challenging to me. I never want to take my feelings out on anyone. Doing the things I don’t always recognize that I need can greatly improve my mood. It helps me be capable of existing in a world that is already challenging.

Understanding what we are feeling or what we need isn’t always easy. We often want to consider the right thing to do before we act. Still, our brain and other elements beyond our control can push us to avoid things. This happens because we can’t have our needs met. We also don’t see that the things we need can help us feel better. This is true even if we don’t think so.

By seeing and knowing what is needed for us to be our best selves, we can meet our basic needs. Recognizing our interception helps in this process. Doing simple things like nourishing, replenishing, and resting our bodies is essential. These actions can guarantee we are safe. They also help others see that we can succeed without falling into old repetitive patterns due to unmet needs.

When we recognize that we need something, it is important to either have what we need accessible or on hand. Alternatively, we need to be willing to speak up and say what we need. This is better than choosing to be miserable and focusing on everything that misery drives us to think about. We should focus on taking care of what we need.