Physical touch

[HidingUnderMyDuvet]

Ds 8 is currently awaiting assessment for ASD/ADHD. He is a lovely boy, but needs constant physical touch. He wants hugs all of the time, and will often hold on to a my arm or leg, or just flop his hold body on to me if I'm sitting.
It's lovely, and I feel awful saying this, but it's just too much for me sometimes. I need physical space, and it's making me feel very uncomfortable having him on me constantly. What can I do?! I've tried a weighted blanket, and a hugging pillow thing, but they don't help. How do I ask him not to hug me without hurting his feelings, especially when he seems to need them so much?

Have you tried a bodysok and cuddle ball? You could also look at a sensory steamroller &/or brushing. Has DS had a sensory OT assessment? What support is DS receiving at school?

Thanks for your reply!
Cuddle ball is the pillow thing we've tried. I have not tried a body sock, so will look that up, thanks.
We've had no OT input. I looked into private before, but it seemed unaffordable. I might try again. School is pretty good about supporting him, but nothing sensory that I'm aware of. Although he did do sensory circuits for a while last year.
I've always thought it to be sensory, but am now wondering if it is also anxiety based? Or are they just interconnected?

Not all ICBs commission sensory OT on the NHS anymore. If your area does, it is worth looking at a referral.

Speak to the school as well. They can support with sensory needs. If DS has an EHCP, sensory OT can be included in there too.

When you said pillow thing, I thought you meant something like a large pregnancy pillow rather than a cuddle ball. It is worth trying one of those.

Sensory needs and anxiety can be (and often are) intertwined. Anxiety can exacerbate how people cope and manage sensory differences, and sensory differences can cause or exacerbate anxiety.