- Noise Reducing Earplugs: The main conflict when it comes to neurodivergent individuals and concerts is how loud concerts are. Earplugs help to reduce excess background noise while still allowing for the music to be heard clearly. An added benefit is that they also prevent damage to the ears and conditions like tinnitus! The most highly recommended earplugs for live events are from Loop Earplugs and they can be found on amazon for around $50 CAD. 

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- Know Where Your Closest Exit/Bathroom Is: If you get overwhelmed or overstimulated and need a break, it's important to be aware of where you can go at that time. Most venues offer stadium maps where these places can be seen. 

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- Attend With A Friend Or Someone You Can Trust: They can make sure you have a good experience and help support you if you're feeling like it's too much. Try to organize a meet-up spot in the case that you become separated at some point.

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- Bring A Fidget Toy: Even something like a smooth worry stone can be helpful in giving you something to keep your hands busy and your mind calm. This is especially helpful during breaks in between sets and songs.

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- Go Towards The Back Of Floor: If you're feeling overwhelmed at your floor seat, try going to the back of the floor. There won't be many people there and it'll give you some time and space to yourself.

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- Arrive Early: Seeing a sea of people can be very anxiety-inducing. Get there early to get yourself acquainted with the venue before it becomes overcrowded.

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- Bring A Doctor's Note For Medication: It can be helpful to take along a doctor's note when bringing in medication, so you can be cleared quickly when being searched upon entry. It can also be helpful to write out your health conditions and medications in a list to make it easier to explain to staff.

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- Remember That No One Will Be Focused On You: Everyone will be focused on the concert or themselves, so don't get caught up in what other people think of you. Don't feel like you have to mask- if you need to stim, do it! 

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- Expect Bright Lights: If they become too much for you, they can be dimmed by wearing sunglasses! Again, don't worry about what others think, prioritize yourself and your needs.

 

-  Security Is There To Help You: Most are trained to deal with this sort of thing, and they can help you if you're feeling in need of assistance at your show. 

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- Don't Be Afraid To Sit Down: Take a few moments to rest and gather yourself at your seat when needed. 

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- Park Close To The Venue: This reduces the amount of walking you'll have to do that night. Most venues have accessible gates with parking that are close to the stadium.

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- Mobility Aids: You'd be surprised how much walking is involved at stadium concerts. Mobility aids can help you navigate through the venue and make it easier on your body. Even bracing joints that are weaker or need extra support can be extremely helpful. 

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- Bring A Supply Kit: Anything you need to get through the night and for emergencies. It might take a bit longer to search, but it'll be really valuable if you need something during the concert. 

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- Take Care Of Yourself Before You Go: Ensure you've eaten, are staying hydrated, and have taken any necessary medications before arriving at the venue. It's important to make sure you keep hydrated and aren't forgetting to eat once you're there. Being well rested is also extremely important, so take it easy the day before and day of. 

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-- Electrolytes/Supplements: If you're feeling faint, bring some things with you to bring up your energy. Water is also super important for moments like these. Salt packs, sugar, etc

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- Know Where Emergency Personnel Are: Hopefully, you won't need to go see them, but it's helpful to know where they can be found in the case of an emergency.

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- Leave Early Or Wait Until It's Less Crowded To: This makes it easier for you to leave without being blocked by a large crowd of fans. 

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- Wear Light Clothing: It will be the summer, and these venues are quite hot. Not to mention, if you're dancing and having fun it will cause you to heat up. I personally get V E R Y nauseous when I overheat, but for other people they can faint from it. Dress in light clothing with minimal layers if possible.

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- Weighted Blankets: These are helpful for those with sensory issues, and usually blankets are allowed inside the venue after security inspection. 

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- Compression Socks: Helpful as you'll be standing on your feet all day and walking quite a bit. 

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- Accessibility Services: Need at least 6 weeks notice to accommodate for disabilities, so reach out to them ahead of time.

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- Medical Supplies/Medications Exempt From Clear Bag Policy: It will still be searched upon entry, but you will not have to have them clearly visible unlike other items. 

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- Most Venues Have Sensory Kits: These can be collected upon entry and used during shows. 

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- Get Outside Food Pre-Approved: Proof of medical dietary restrictions is required in order to bring in outside food, contact accessibility services ahead of time to arrange this.

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- If You're Prone To Seizures/Fainting, Notify Security: They will keep an eye on you and will assist if anything goes wrong. 

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- If You Were Unable To Secure ADA Seating, Contact Accessibility Services: They may be able to move you to a more accessible seat for your show. 

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- Courtesy Carts: You can arrange to be picked up by a cart and taken to your seats. This minimizes walking and stress on the body.

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- Sensory Rooms: Most venues have sensory rooms for fans to go to if they need to decompress or go somewhere calm and quiet.

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