What Does It Mean to Stim?

It’s Autism Awareness Month! Something you might already know about is “ stimming”. 

“Stimming” refers to self-stimulating behaviors, usually involving repetitive movements or vocalizations. Everybody stims in some way. Stimming is part of the diagnostic criteria for autism, but can also be typical behavior or a trait of other disorders.

Almost everyone engages in some form of self-stimulating behavior. You might bite your nails or twirl your hair around your fingers when you’re bored, nervous, or need to relieve tension. Sometimes people who are autistic find it more challenging to “masking” or hide their stims.  Stimming is a coping mechanism that can provide comfort in a variety of situations.

If you are in need of help or looking for more information on stimming, please feel free to reach out, someone will always be here to listen. Call today. 210-384-1254

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