Restriction means being prevented from moving freely or being confined against your will. It can include being held down, trapped, or having your movement controlled by others. This is particularly important for neurodivergent people, who have historically faced harmful practices where restriction was used to stop stimming, force compliance, or ‘manage’ sensory overload.
While some might claim restriction is ‘helpful’ or ‘calming,’ being forced to stay still or confined is harmful and can be traumatic.
Everyone, especially neurodivergent people, has the right to control their own movement and body. True comfort and regulation always come from choices we make ourselves, not limitations forced upon us.
Deep pressure versus restriction
Restriction is completely different from deep pressure, where you’re in control and can adjust or stop the pressure whenever you want. Deep pressure should feel comforting and releasing, like a warm hug you chose to receive.
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