Being less distracted/distracting with stims...

Post Reply New Topic

Well, I'm in a class right now and I tend to play with my phone or something... I can't just sit idle and only pay attention. I like to keep my hands and mind somewhat more occupied.

Just wondering if anyone has any suggestions for something less distracting to others/myself that might look like I'm paying more attention... (and won't get me in trouble for playing with my phone!)

Sometimes I do little wiggly motions with my thumb and forefinger - I don't think it's very noticeable. You could also practice taking notes with your non-dominant hand.

My dad's friend holds his breath during meetings to entertain himself.

Try bouncing your feet, wiggling your toes or tongue, or moving your hands in a less visible manner.

I wiggle my thumb toes or make small, patterned movements with my feet almost constantly. I'm curious, though, are you distracted by your own stimming? I find it far easier to concentrate when doing so.

Well, the whole concept of stimming is actually new to me, but I realize that's what I'm doing now that I've read about it.
I think I find it easier to pay attention in class when I'm doing something other than just listening. It doesn't really need to be constant, but if I don't do something to.. well, stim, every once in a while, I end up losing focus, but it makes it seem like I'm not paying attention at all.

Hi SolarSystem. I would like to give you advice (that you can decide on for yourself) based on my experiences.

I finger flap a lot. I am also a gifted intervention specialist in a public high school. I have gotten the habit of putting my hands behind my back when I stim in this manner. I have lunch duty so I stand in the cafeteria for a half hour each day of the work week. And I usually finger flap stim a lot there---with my hands behind my back. The other day there were visitors in the school (adult volunteers). A man came up to me in the cafeteria and began questioning me about if I had been in the military. I said, "No, I've never been in the military." He said that I was standing like military personnel do with my hands behind my back.

So...what I am saying is...sometimes when we conceal our stims, we may still become noticeable to those around us. Perhaps it's just best to relax and stim without worrying about it. If it makes us feel better---stim away.