Those with autism experience a myriad of physical and mental conditions, as well as behaviors and mannerisms that can make life more complicated. But did you know these individuals also deal with what’s called autistic burnout?
Whether you have autism, care for someone with the condition, or just want to know more, you’ll find this article to be extremely helpful. We’ll share all you need to know about autistic burnout, autistic burnout symptoms, prevention tips, and more.
What is Autistic Burnout?
Put simply, autistic burnout is a disorder characterized by profound tiredness, reduced tolerance to stimulus, and function loss lasting at least three months. It’s thought to be the result of long-term stress and a disconnect between life expectations and their abilities. It’s usually associated with those who lack necessary supports.
Autistic Burnout Symptoms
First and foremost, autistic burnout will look a little different for every individual on the spectrum. However, the main symptoms experts see with this disorder include:
- Persistent fatigue on a mental, physical, and emotional level.
- Increased sensitivity to various types of sensory input.
- More shutdowns and meltdowns.
- A need for more sensory input to function at a base level.
- Withdrawing from social relationships or activities.
- Loss of skills (may be verbal, executive functioning, or even skills necessary for daily living).
- The need for more alone time.
- Changes in sleeping habits.
*This is not an exhaustive list of autistic burnout symptoms.
How to Prevent Autistic Burnout
Dealing with autistic burnout is nothing short of a struggle, so it’s always a good idea to attempt to prevent it. One of the biggest ways to steer clear of this condition is to give yourself some grace and be real about what you can and cannot handle right now.
Unfortunately, many autistic people get burnt out by blowing past their boundaries and leaning into internalized ableism. When you honor your true capabilities and lay off as needed, you’re less likely to become burned out.
Here are a few other things you can do to prevent autistic burnout:
- Look inward to become more aware of your needs, triggers, and symptoms so you can take steps to address them.
- Seek out accommodations to give yourself a break in social situations. Mask less when possible and choose environments that don’t overload your senses.
- Talk to your supervisor/manager and request formal accommodations to make work less offensive/easier to manage.
Ways to Alleviate Autistic Burnout
Sometimes, it’s too late to prevent autistic burnout. When you need help to get over an episode of burnout, the following tips may be helpful:
- Block out unnecessary sensory input.
- Implement self-care, whatever that looks like for you.
- Get caught up on rest.
- Reach out for individual and community-based social support.
- See a mental health professional for tailored support and coping skills.
- Tap into the autism community online and in person for external validation and camaraderie.
- Lean into your unique interests.
So, there you have it – everything you need to know about autistic burnout. We hope you found all the information you were looking for, and we wish you the best as you learn how to better navigate autism.
