How Interoception and Pain Connect

How Interoception and Pain Connect — Educational Infographic (Printable, A2)

You will receive the printable unwatermarked version of this infographic

A clear, visual guide to interoception — the internal sense that lets us feel and interpret signals like pain, hunger, and heartbeat — and why it varies so much from person to person.

This infographic covers:

• The "How I Feel" network: how interoceptive signals travel from the body to the insula and become awareness
• Internal pain & discomfort: stomach cramps, racing heart, joint aches, muscle soreness
• Exteroception vs. interoception explained side by side
• Three interoceptive processing profiles: hyper-aware, hypo-aware, and difficulty pinpointing — with what each might look like
• Examples of internal pain signals (GI distress, cardiovascular changes, fatigue, headaches, and more)
• Practical ways to support interoception and pain awareness

What you get:

• High-resolution PDF, print-ready and scalable up to A2 (420 × 594mm)
• Instant digital download

Perfect for: SEND training, therapy rooms, classrooms, parent carer forums, and home use.

For personal, classroom, and professional educational use. Not for resale or redistribution.

© Nonspeaking Autism

Disclaimer:

This resource is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is designed to support understanding of autism, sensory processing, nervous system regulation, and behaviour from a neurodevelopmental perspective.

The information provided is not medical, psychological, therapeutic, or legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for assessment, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.

Every autistic person is unique. Strategies and supports should always be tailored to the individual's needs, strengths, and circumstances.

If a child displays a sudden change in behaviour, severe distress, signs of illness, injury, or behaviours that place themselves or others at risk, seek appropriate medical advice or emergency assistance where necessary.

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and reflects current understanding, knowledge in autism and neuroscience continues to evolve.

This resource is for the purchaser's personal, educational, or professional use only. It may not be copied, redistributed, resold, edited, shared publicly, or reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission.

© Nonspeaking Autism 💙