Mom Brain, Psych Trained

Mom Brain, Psych Trained Nicole Morgan
Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

06/04/2026

My sensory seeker could do this for HOURS. 🩵

Jumping, climbing, spinning, and seeking big movement are common ways some autistic children meet their sensory needs. Activities like this provide vestibular input, which comes from the inner ear and helps the brain understand movement, balance, and body position.

For sensory-seeking kids, these activities can be calming, organizing, and help them feel more regulated in their bodies.

Every child is different, but sometimes what looks like “too much energy” is actually a child meeting a sensory need.

Does your child seek movement too? Tell me their favorite sensory activity below! ⬇️

06/04/2026

One of the most common questions I received about the recent autism subtype study was: “Why don’t researchers study autistic adults too?”

The answer is actually pretty interesting.

Many of these large studies are trying to understand how autism develops early in life, before years of masking, therapies, environmental influences, and life experiences shape the presentation. But that doesn’t mean adult autism research isn’t important.

In fact, many autistic adults have advocated for MORE research on masking, burnout, late diagnosis, mental health, relationships, employment, and quality of life.

The reality is we need both childhood and adult autism research to better understand and support autistic individuals across the lifespan.

What autism research question would you like scientists to study next? 👇

06/03/2026

Your child isn’t giving you a hard time. They’re having a hard time.

One of the biggest misconceptions about PDA (Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) is that children are simply being defiant or oppositional. In reality, everyday demands can trigger a threat response, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming.

When we shift from asking “How do I make them comply?” to “What is making this feel unsafe or overwhelming?” everything changes.

Understanding the why behind the behavior doesn’t mean lowering expectations. It means approaching them differently.

Parents of PDA children: What’s one everyday demand that turns into a battle in your house? Share below and let’s help other families feel less alone. 💜

Nicole Morgan, MSN, PMHNP-BC

06/02/2026

My son’s newest special interest? Mixing sodas. 🥤✨

Right now, he’s fascinated by combining different drinks, experimenting with flavors, and seeing what happens when he creates his own concoctions. To some people, it might seem like a silly phase. To him, it’s science, creativity, and pure joy.

Many people with autism develop what are called “restricted or fixed interests.” These interests are often deeper, more intense, and more focused than typical hobbies. While they can sometimes seem unusual to others, they often provide comfort, predictability, learning opportunities, and a way to connect with the world.

Instead of trying to stop these interests, we can often use them as a bridge for learning, communication, social interaction, and building confidence.

So today, our kitchen is a soda lab. And honestly? I’m here for it. ❤️

Nicole Morgan, PMHNP

RaceTrac

06/02/2026

When we talk about mental health, men are often left out of the conversation.

Many men were taught to be providers, protectors, and problem-solvers, but not necessarily how to ask for help when they’re struggling. The reality is that mental health challenges affect men too, and silence can come at a significant cost.

This Men’s Mental Health Month, let’s normalize checking in, having honest conversations, and seeking support when needed. Mental health is health, regardless of gender.

What is one message about men’s mental health you wish more people understood?

Nicole Morgan, MSN, PMHNP-BC

05/31/2026

🌕 Every healthcare worker has that moment where they look at the schedule and ask, “Is there a full moon coming?”

Interestingly, science is starting to find that the moon may have subtle effects on sleep and biological rhythms, but not necessarily all the wild things we’ve blamed it for over the years. The evidence is much more nuanced than most people think.

As for this week? I’m not making any promises. 😅

Hey y’all!!! Thank you so much for being here and helping this community grow!! If you could take a second to invite peo...
05/26/2026

Hey y’all!!! Thank you so much for being here and helping this community grow!! If you could take a second to invite people to like the page, I would appreciate it SO much!!! 🙏🏻

05/26/2026

Summer camp season can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time, especially for neurodivergent kids who thrive on predictability.

So yes… we made the schedules.
Visual schedules.
Backup plans.
Transition plans.
“Just in case” plans. 😅

Because for many autistic kids, preparation is regulation.
Knowing what’s coming helps lower anxiety before the first day even starts.

If you’re spending your summer prepping instead of “winging it,” you’re not doing too much. You’re helping your child feel safe enough to succeed. 💜

05/25/2026

Today we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. 🇺🇸
Their courage, service, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

This Memorial Day, we pause to reflect with gratitude for those who gave everything for our country and for the families who carry that loss every day. ❤️🤍💙

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