The Polyvagal Workbook for AuDHD Adults: Body-Based Strategies to Regulate Meltdowns, Shutdowns, and Sensory Overwhelm for Autistic and ADHD Nervous Systems

Harrison, Kerry Luther

ISBN 10: 1764593456 / ISBN 13: 9781764593458

Edité par ReasonPath Clinical Press, 2026

Print on Demand. N° de réf. du vendeur 407716660

Synopsis :

Living with both autism and ADHD means navigating a nervous system that pulls in two directions at once. One part craves stimulation, novelty, and intensity. The other demands predictability, routine, and sensory control. The result is a daily tug of war that drains regulatory capacity before the outside world even makes its demands. Standard polyvagal resources assume a neurotypical nervous system. Standard neurodivergent guides ignore the autonomic biology underneath. This workbook bridges the gap.

A Polyvagal Framework Built for AuDHD Neurology

Every polyvagal concept in this workbook has been translated through the specific lens of co-occurring autism and ADHD. The three autonomic states, the vagal brake, neuroception, and co-regulation are all reframed for nervous systems that experience atypical interoception, alexithymia, sensory processing differences, and the chronic depletion of masking. Exercises are adapted for adults who may struggle to feel or name what is happening inside their bodies.

121 Practical Exercises Across 20 Chapters

This is not a book to read passively. It is a workbook filled with structured exercises, tracking tools, reflection prompts, and customizable protocols designed for real-world use. Each exercise includes clear instructions, real writing space, and follow-up guidance. Every chapter follows a teach, try, and track structure that builds skills progressively without overwhelming executive function.

What This Workbook Covers

The AuDHD window of tolerance and why it is narrower, spikier, and more variable than neurotypical baselines. Interoception gaps and three common profiles that change how body awareness works. Meltdown anatomy, the accumulation model, and post-meltdown recovery protocols. Shutdown anatomy, the difference from depression, and graduated reboot sequences. Vagal toning exercises adapted for sensory differences and ADHD restlessness. Bottom-up somatic strategies for when the thinking brain goes offline. Co-regulation redefined for nervous systems that find social interaction costly. Masking as measurable nervous system depletion and strategic unmasking plans. AuDHD burnout as prolonged dorsal vagal collapse with phased recovery roadmaps. Polyvagal approaches to relationships, work, and sleep. A 28-day nervous system reset program and ready-made crisis protocols.

Neurodiversity Affirming Throughout

This workbook never pathologizes neurodivergence or suggests that regulation means performing neurotypically. The goal is building a life that supports the nervous system you actually have. Stimming is honored as regulation. Solitude is respected as a need. Advocacy is framed as nervous system care. Scientific honesty is maintained regarding polyvagal theory's ongoing academic debate.

Includes a complete glossary, printable tracking sheets, crisis protocol templates, communication cards for meltdowns and shutdowns, and a support person letter for partners and family.

Détails bibliographiques

Titre : The Polyvagal Workbook for AuDHD Adults: ...
Éditeur : ReasonPath Clinical Press
Date d'édition : 2026
Reliure : Couverture souple
Etat : New