Interoception describes how we notice, interpret, and respond to signals from inside the body, like hunger, thirst, pain, temperature, heart rate, or the need to rest.

Many Autistic and ADHD people experience differences in interoception. Signals might be muted, delayed, intense, or hard to interpret, which can make it difficult to notice needs until they become urgent. Someone might forget to eat or drink, miss early signs of pain, or feel “off” without knowing why.

Interoceptive differences often overlap with alexithymia, where naming emotions is difficult. Because emotions are felt in the body, unclear body signals can make emotional awareness harder too. A person may notice physical discomfort or activation before they can make sense of what they’re feeling emotionally.

Interoception isn’t fixed. Awareness can grow over time, especially with gentle noticing, curiosity, and support. Body-based approaches can help people recognize and respond to needs earlier, before they escalate.

For people with low interoception, it can also help to build in external supports, like timers, visual reminders, routines, or check-ins that cue eating, resting, or pausing to notice the body.