Nico Löffler, who has autism, and podcast host Olli Schmidt
Psyche
02.04.2026 Sabrina Ludwig 5997

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

This letscast.fm content can only be loaded if you accept the privacy policy of letscast.fm.

To the data protection settings "

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 Gratitude makes you healthy and happy

Woman smiles gratefully
Body & Soul
13.01.2026 Christin Müller 23117

Learning gratitude and staying healthy

We adults live our daily lives filled with to-do lists, tightly scheduled appointments, and ambitious goals. In doing so, we often overlook the small moments that truly enrich our lives. Yet gratitude is the key to a healthier and happier life. How you can learn gratitude and which method helps.

Learning gratitude increases the feeling of happiness

To feel gratitude, you need to look deep inside yourself. Leave all negativity behind and reflect on the positive aspects of your life—no matter how small they may be.

Gratitude has been proven to increase feelings of happiness and joy in life. And not only that:

Being grateful is something you can learn!

Gratitude method 1: Gratitude journal

There are various methods you can use to learn gratitude. The best known is the gratitude journal, in which you write down every day before going to bed what was nice about that day or what you are grateful for. One thing per day is enough. In our article "Writing down positive thoughts," we explain the principle of writing things down in more detail, which you are welcome to use as a template for your journal.

However, it is important not only to write down what you are grateful for, but also to reflect on it so that you can truly feel it.

Gratitude method 2: The 5-finger method

We would like to introduce you to one gratitude method today because it gives you a holistic feeling and quickly and effectively sharpens your eye for the little things mentioned above.

The starting point for this gratitude exercise is the 5-finger communication method developed by American psychologist Elsbeth Martindale. You can do this exercise regularly or whenever you're feeling down. You'll quickly experience a boost in your mood and a lasting increase in your well-being.

Use your hand as an aid and go through the following five steps one after the other.


 

  1. Thumbs: Familiarize yourself with the topic! Think about what you are really proud of. Be aware of your strengths and give yourself a pat on the back.
  2. Point the finger: Point to the facts! What excites and inspires you? For example, think of something beautiful from nature or a piece of work that you have created.
  3. Middle finger: Name your feelings! What good thing have you done for someone and how did it make you feel? How does it make you feel when you think about it now? Think about who you could do something good for next.
  4. Ring finger: What makes you feel good? Think of the person(s) you love or have loved. What feelings does this trigger in you?
  5. Little finger: What do you want? Name one thing you are grateful for.

Do you already feel a change?

Gratitude makes you healthy


 

Better sleep and less anxiety through greater gratitude

You may already have guessed that gratitude makes you feel content and happy. But did you know that it can be a true all-round remedy?

People who are grateful generally have a positive attitude toward life. It improves sleep and reduces feelings such as anger, anxiety, and depression. Gratitude increases motivation and reduces chronic stress—both in your private life and at work.

This has even been scientifically proven in various studies over the past 20 years. A 2015 study by the University of California even found that being grateful has been shown to improve heart health.

The good thing about it is:

"Gratitude can be trained, just like curiosity or humor."

says psychologist Willibald Ruch from the University of Zurich.

Those who practice this regularly increase their well-being. After some time, the neurobiological effects of gratitude training have even been proven by brain scans, according to Spiegel scientists at the University of Indiana (2016).

Learning gratitude: The most important questions and answers

What does it mean to learn gratitude?

Learning gratitude means deliberately focusing on the positive things in everyday life and using techniques to actively feel gratitude and establish it as an attitude.

Why is gratitude important for health?

Gratitude not only increases feelings of happiness and joy, but according to studies, it can also reduce stress, improve sleep, increase motivation, and even strengthen heart health.

How can I practice gratitude?

The easiest way to do this is with methods such as keeping a gratitude journal—writing down one positive experience every day—or Elsbeth Martindale's 5-finger method, which involves reflecting on different aspects of your life.

Can everyone learn gratitude?

Yes, studies and experts such as Prof. Willibald Ruch prove that gratitude, like curiosity or humor, can be trained—and regular practice leads to measurable improvements in well-being.

How quickly do the effects of practicing gratitude become apparent?

Positive effects can occur after just a few weeks of regular training, e.g., more zest for life, less stress, or better sleep.

What scientific evidence is there for the effects of gratitude?

Studies conducted by the University of California (2015) and the University of Indiana (2016) show that gratitude promotes neurobiological changes, protects the heart, and increases overall well-being.

What other benefits does practicing gratitude offer?

In addition to improved well-being, many people report stronger relationships, greater resilience, and increased satisfaction in their everyday lives—both personally and professionally.

Health impulses with the pme "Healthy Bites"

Looking for a small portion of well-being? Our "Healthy Bites" give you ideas for more relaxation, balance, activity and feel-good moments in your everyday work and private life.

They are not a substitute for professional help from counselors and psychologists. If you are experiencing addiction problems, persistent low mood, ongoing excessive stress, or deeper mental health issues, please seek professional advice, for example from pme Familienservice (link opens in a new window).