What can I do at work to help someone when routines help them but also make them feel trapped?

Short answer

Use routines to reduce ambiguity, while keeping a clear way to adapt them.

What this can look like

A routine can reduce unnecessary choices while still needing a clear exception path.

Why it can happen

Predictable meetings, documented processes and stable priorities can improve access. When a routine must change, provide notice and an explicit restart point.

What might help

Keep the routine simple and explain how to request or manage a change.

What the research helps explain

Australian autism guidance and research on masking describe meaningful differences in sensory experience, communication, routines, transitions and recovery. At work, person-led, context-aware options can improve access without requiring a person to disclose or be identified as autistic or AuDHD.

What can vary

People differ widely in communication, sensory needs, recovery and preferred support. Similar experiences can have other explanations. Do not infer identity, ask for private information or make adjustments conditional on disclosure.

For this situation

For you, standardise essential process and keep low-risk flexibility where possible.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.

• National Guideline for assessment and diagnosis of autism — Australian evidence guidance on autism assessment, varied presentation and appropriate limits.
• Autism Support Strategies — Australian public guidance on practical, person-led environmental and communication supports.