This guide helps supporters respond to zone-based states (Green, Yellow, Red, Blue, Black) using the Sensana approach: consent-led, sensory-aware, minimally demanding, and attuned to lived experience.
🟢 Green Zone – Regulated & Engaged
“I feel safe, calm, and able to participate.”
What to Do:
- Gently engage: collaborate on tasks, plans, or creative activities
- Offer co-regulation: shared routines, walks, soft conversation
- Support rhythm-building: prep meals, organise tools, pace the day
- Encourage noticing: “How does your body feel now?”
How to Support:
- Invite—not pressure—participation
- Respect independence and readiness
- Build capacity without overloading
Examples:
- “Would you like to co-make a meal today?”
- “This could be a good time to prep a Yellow Day snack kit together.”
🟡 Yellow Zone – Alert & Fraying
“I’m getting overstimulated, anxious, or starting to struggle.”
What to Do:
- Slow the pace and reduce input
- Offer grounding tools: textures, breathwork, visuals
- Name the state gently: “You might be in yellow—want to pause?”
- Use permission-based scripts
How to Support:
- Avoid pushing decisions or demands
- Offer soft structure: “Would you like to pick from a short list?”
- Make space for stillness or movement (rocking, tapping)
Examples:
- “Would you like to use your fidget or wrap before we keep going?”
- “Let’s pause and check which zone you’re in.”
🔴 Red Zone – Overloaded or in Flare
“I’m overwhelmed. I can’t talk or think clearly.”
What to Do:
- Lower all demands and expectations
- Protect the environment: quiet, dim light, low scent
- Offer safety tools: weighted wrap, dark room, sensory retreat
- Use non-verbal presence and shutdown scripts
How to Support:
- Avoid verbal processing unless invited
- Use consistent, calm body language
- Be a calming presence, not a fixer
Examples:
- “You don’t have to do anything right now. I’ve got it.”
- “Let’s sit in quiet—I’m here if you want me.”
🔵 Blue Zone – Shutdown / Withdrawn
“I’ve gone flat or numb. I can’t re-engage yet.”
What to Do:
- Remove demands without withdrawing support
- Respect dissociation or silence
- Provide sensory-safe comfort: soft textures, familiar music, presence
- Reconnect slowly: “I’m staying nearby. You’re not alone.”
How to Support:
- Don’t interpret withdrawal as rejection
- Don’t try to “cheer up” or “solve”
- Anchor gently with known routines or sensory anchors
Examples:
- “You can stay in silence. I’ll sit with you or be in the next room.”
- “Let’s wrap you in something soft. You’re safe here.”
⚫ Black Zone – Crisis / Danger Mode
“I’m in panic, pain, or dysregulation that feels dangerous.”
What to Do:
- Prioritise physical and emotional safety
- Remove triggers and stimuli
- Ground through rhythm, texture, voice if tolerated
- Seek emergency support if required (but do not escalate unless needed)
How to Support:
- Speak softly and predictably
- Reassure with body presence, not logic
- After stabilisation, co-regulate or guide into recovery zone (Blue or Red)
Examples:
- “You’re not alone. I’m here, and I won’t do anything without asking.”
- “Breathe with me—slowly, together. One step at a time.”
🧺 Tools to Keep Handy for All Zones
- Zone Visual Board (show which tools are helpful in each state)
- Weighted item, soft blanket, ear defenders
- Smell-safe lip balm or essential oil vial (if tolerated)
- Laminated scripts for shutdown or crisis
- Snack kits, water, electrolyte drops
- Sensory/fidget items
- Visuals showing “no words needed” or “need space”