Nico Löffler, who has autism, and podcast host Olli Schmidt
Psyche
02.04.2026 Sabrina Ludwig 262

Episode 47: Understanding Autism

What does autism mean in everyday life—and how does the diagnostic process actually work? In this podcast episode, Nico shares his personal experiences and explains what terms like neurodiversity, masking, and sensory overload really mean. The podcast offers practical insights into the symptoms, challenges, and support services related to the autism spectrum.

That's what this episode is about:

  • Neurodiversity and Neurotypical: An Overview of the Terms
  • Common Symptoms and Daily Coping Strategies for Autism
  • Masking, Overload, and Coping with Sensory Overload
  • Diagnosis: The Pathways and Challenges of Autism Diagnosis

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Excerpt from the Podcat interview with Nico Löffler:

Nico, what exactly is neurodiversity, and what does the term "neurotypical" mean?

Nico: The umbrella term "neurodiversity" refers to the fact that human brains function differently. There are neurotypical people—that is, the average. And then there are people whose neurology—that is, the way their brains function—differs slightly more. These people are called neurodivergent. This includes diagnoses such as autism or ADHD, for example.

What are the symptoms of autism?

Nico: Difficulty with change, a need for routine, a need for structure— , for example. It’s important to know that autism can occur with or without cognitive impairments. So you could say it affects all areas of intelligence.

It’s possible that someone has significant cognitive impairments and struggles as a result. But it’s also possible that someone has average or above-average intelligence and doesn’t really have any problems in their daily life—for example, with understanding things cognitively. That’s the case for me; I don’t have any cognitive impairments. Nevertheless, I face a lot of difficulties due to autism. These generally fall into the broad categories of communication, interaction, and repetitive behaviors.

You need to explain that briefly. It's repetitive.

Nico: Yes, "repetitive" means something that repeats itself. So , behaviors that are stereotypical— things that are done over and over again in the same way. For example, this includes having daily routines, because they provide a sense of security and are familiar, allowing you to plan your schedule precisely and minimizing your exposure to spontaneous changes.

But it also applies to special interests, for example. These are interests that are very intense and sometimes focus on very specific, niche topics. For me, for instance, it’s Harry Potter, or the universe—I find that totally fascinating too—and I can spend hours engrossed in it, to the point where I can lose myself in it and maybe even forget about important everyday matters for a while.

Are there any other symptoms that are important to consider when discussing autism?

Nico: Absolutely. So, of course, a major area is the social aspect—specifically, when it comes to communicating with other people. For example, when I try to use certain facial expressions and gestures myself, or when I try to recognize them in the person I’m talking to.

And then there’s interaction. That’s the ability to engage in back-and-forth conversations—conversations where people respond to one another. One person says something, the other person responds to it, and then the first person responds to that. These are exactly the kinds of things that people on the autism spectrum find difficult. 

Overwhelm, Overload, and Coping Strategies in Everyday Life. What Happens When It All Gets Too Much?

Nico: For example, when some people on the autism spectrum become so overstimulated that they experience what’s called an “overload.” This is sensory overload, where you become completely overwhelmed by the various environmental stimuli. Maybe people around you are talking really loudly, and then there’s a bright light, and then you catch a whiff of some unpleasant smell, and at some point it’s just too much. Then, under certain circumstances, you might experience a so-called overload, and your mind basically shuts down—you feel completely overwhelmed inside—and that can end up being a pretty rough experience.

What helps you in a moment like that?

Nico: The best thing would be to prevent that kind of overload. Make sure it doesn’t get to that point in the first place. Seek some space beforehand, maybe even warn the people around you and say, “This or that can quickly lead to me feeling overstimulated or overwhelmed.” I’ll make myself known and maybe step back. Small aids can also help, like headphones or sunglasses when there are stimuli. Then there’s the concept of “stimming”—which, by the way, also falls under these repetitive behaviors, these repetitive actions—where you do small things that stimulate the senses, but in a positive way.

Cheerful to stormy - the everyday podcast with Olli Schmidt 

Welcome to "Sunny to Stormy" – the everyday podcast. From the heights of joy to the depths of despair: life has its ups and downs. That’s exactly what we’re all about: the everyday crises, such as arguments with your partner, parenting issues, work-related stress, uncertainties, and anxiety. We talk to experts and provide you with practical tips to help you better cope with crises and challenges. 

You can listen to our podcast on all major podcast platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, Audible, etc.)! Questions, suggestions, feedback, or requests? Feel free to email us at: familienservice 

 

zero Working with Long Covid: a case study

Woman with long covid with mask
Body & Soul
10.11.2022 Christin Müller 21669

Working with Long Covid: a case study

Long Covid patients are on sick leave for up to 105 days on average. Company integration management helps employers to reintegrate affected employees back into the workplace after a long period of absence.

IT project manager: "I could no longer cope with my work physically and mentally"

Sandra Schulze*, 42 years old, IT specialist in a medium-sized company, is affected by Long Covid. A Covid disease with an initially moderate course in November 2021 changed her life abruptly. Tiredness, difficulty concentrating and muscle pain have been daily companions in her job and private life ever since.

The journey to the shops or to work became torture for her: loud voices, the bright lights in the subway, her constantly ringing phone, the exhausting video calls - the simplest tasks were exhausting and almost impossible to cope with. Her GP pulled the ripcord and put the project manager on sick leave.

A clear case for occupational integration management

After six weeks of incapacity for work, the employer offered her the company integration management program.

The BEM process is a legally binding standard procedure in accordance with SGB IX §167 , which serves to reintegrate employees after a long period of incapacity for work. It is carried out if a sick employee has been unable to work for at least six weeks in a row or in total within a 12-month period.

This is intended to support the return to work, prevent a renewed incapacity to work and maintain the job.

Christiane Weidemann, BEM consultant at pme Familienservice, has already managed several long Covid cases: 

"Around one in ten people who are infected with the coronavirus still have symptoms weeks later. The variety of symptoms makes it difficult for those affected and many doctors to recognize a long Covid illness. They may also feel ashamed and guilty towards the company or colleagues because they are no longer able to perform their work at 100%. It is therefore important to take those affected seriously."

How does the BEM process work in the company?

The BEM process is clearly structured: "First, we contact the person concerned and offer a non-binding consultation. In this meeting, we provide information on fundamental questions about the BEM, e.g. the legal basis and data protection, as the consultations are subject to confidentiality. Unless the person concerned agrees to the manager, the works council or other persons being involved," explains Christiane Weidemann. "After this initial information meeting, the employee is free to decide whether they want to take part in the BEM process. If they decline, the process is complete." 

Sandra Schulze opted for the BEM process and also decided to involve her manager directly. After an initial meeting with the BEM expert, she quickly realized that she was in good hands. "I felt understood by Ms. Weidemann right from the start. She took me and my concerns very seriously and immediately showed me various ways in which I could improve my health situation. She also helped me to find suitable doctors with Long Covid experience and to apply for rehab. We also discussed a suitable re-entry strategy with my employer. This strong support gave me a good feeling".

Re-entry with Long Covid step by step

After a good eight months, Sandra Schulze was finally able to return to work and gradually increase her working hours - thanks to lots of short breaks, a tandem project partner who relieved her of a lot of extra work, close coordination loops with her boss and a limited number of virtual meetings. She was also able to take advantage of various relaxation programs through her employer, which helped her to continue to strengthen her health after rehab. She still suffers from milder symptoms today: "I can only concentrate fully on my work for a few hours a day. I usually work from home, as the journey to the office is simply too strenuous for me on some days. Unfortunately, the headaches are still a daily companion, but they are much more manageable."

The support Sandra Schulze experienced from her employer is something she wishes other people with a similar fate could also enjoy.

*Name changed.

 

pme health: Effective BGM in blended learning format 

Organizational consulting, GBU Psyche, BEM: Our occupational health management (OHM) services are characterized by their holistic approach and individuality. From strategy development, needs analysis and implementation of measures through to evaluation, we establish, supplement and optimize companies' occupational health management portfolios in order to keep their employees healthy, productive and motivated. 

Personal support for employees based on a new holistic mind-body & soul approach is one of our key factors and goes hand in hand with our blended learning concept. We combine digital and live formats to promote physical activity, nutrition, stress prevention and mindfulness and make our knowledge available regardless of time and place.