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Stress Isn't Just About Load—It's About Fit
Why do some environments energize one person while overwhelming another? This infographic explores how stress is shaped not only by the amount of demand we face, but also by how well those demands fit our nervous system. Comparing neurotypical, neurodivergent, and twice-exceptional (2e) nervous systems, the graphic illustrates how differences in sensory processing, executive functioning, compensation, and environmental fit influence stress, overload, and long-term sustainability. Rather than viewing stress as simply a matter of resilience or workload, this resource encourages a broader perspective that considers the interaction between neurodevelopmental architecture, cumulative load, and person-environment fit.
Ideal for clinicians, educators, caregivers, employers, and neurodivergent individuals, this visual supports more informed conversations about accommodations, burnout prevention, and creating environments that promote sustainable functioning.
Educational resource only. This handout reflects current research and clinical concepts and incorporates the author's Bandwidth Model™, an evidence-informed conceptual framework for understanding how neurodevelopmental architecture, environmental fit, cumulative load, nervous system state, and processing demands influence day-to-day functioning. The Bandwidth Model™ has not yet been empirically evaluated and should be considered a conceptual framework rather than an established scientific model. This resource is intended for educational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical or mental health evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.
Stress Isn't Just About Load—It's About Fit
Why do some environments energize one person while overwhelming another? This infographic explores how stress is shaped not only by the amount of demand we face, but also by how well those demands fit our nervous system. Comparing neurotypical, neurodivergent, and twice-exceptional (2e) nervous systems, the graphic illustrates how differences in sensory processing, executive functioning, compensation, and environmental fit influence stress, overload, and long-term sustainability. Rather than viewing stress as simply a matter of resilience or workload, this resource encourages a broader perspective that considers the interaction between neurodevelopmental architecture, cumulative load, and person-environment fit.
Ideal for clinicians, educators, caregivers, employers, and neurodivergent individuals, this visual supports more informed conversations about accommodations, burnout prevention, and creating environments that promote sustainable functioning.
Educational resource only. This handout reflects current research and clinical concepts and incorporates the author's Bandwidth Model™, an evidence-informed conceptual framework for understanding how neurodevelopmental architecture, environmental fit, cumulative load, nervous system state, and processing demands influence day-to-day functioning. The Bandwidth Model™ has not yet been empirically evaluated and should be considered a conceptual framework rather than an established scientific model. This resource is intended for educational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical or mental health evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.
