Autistic Burnout

What is Autistic Burnout?

Autistic burnout is a state of intense physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. It can be short-term and daily (like a social hangover) or last for years, potentially becoming life-changing. During burnout, an autistic person's brain may be in extreme survival mode, leaving little to no energy to cope with daily life.

Critical aspects of autistic burnout include:

• Pervasive, long-term exhaustion (typically lasting 3+ months)
• Difficulty with previously manageable tasks or skills
• Reduced tolerance to sensory input
• Significant impact on mental health and well-being

Signs of Autistic Burnout:

• Chronic exhaustion and feeling overwhelmed

• Increased difficulty with self-care

• Temporary (or permanent) loss of skills like speech

• Cognitive processing challenges and dissociation

• Changes in sleep patterns

• Difficulty with executive functioning

• Heightened sensitivity to sensory input

• Increased instances of meltdowns or shutdowns

• Reduced tolerance for stressors and increased irritability
  

  It's important to note that autistic burnout can manifest differently for each individual.
  

  Factors Contributing to Autistic Burnout:

  
  Several factors can contribute to autistic burnout, including:
  1. Pressure to mask autistic traits
  2. Unmet support needs
  3. Social, sensory, and educational pressures
  4. Communication expectations that may not align with an individual's preferences
  5. Sleep difficulties
  6. Lack of understanding from others
  7. Insufficient support (like a poorly funded NDIS plan)
  8. Navigating a world not designed for neurodivergent individuals
  9. Major life changes and transitions

  
  
  A specific event may trigger burnout, but it's likely to have been building over time.

  
  
  The Importance of REST and Support:

  
  REST is a crucial concept in managing and preventing autistic burnout:

  
  R - Reduce demands and expectations
  E - Ensure adequate sleep and relaxation
  S - Seek support from understanding individuals and professionals
  T - Take time for autistic-affirming activities and self-care
  

• 
  Recovery is not linear and will be different for everyone. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, but there are elements to consider. There are:
  

Rest

This can include physical rest (sleeping, yoga, meditation), creative rest (making art, being in nature), social rest (solitude, connecting with other autistic individuals), and mental rest (listening to music, therapy, journaling).

Energy

Promote autonomy, reduce demands, adjust expectations, and recognise that energy levels may deplete significantly.

Support

Daily tasks may be more challenging during burnout. Increased support from the autistic community and understanding allies is crucial.

Time

Recovery can take weeks, months, or years. It's important not to rush the process. Return to routines and activities gradually when ready.

How Your Therapy SA Can Help

At Your Therapy, SA, our experienced therapists understand autistic individuals' unique experiences. We offer tailored support to help you:
• Recognise early signs of burnout
• Develop strategies for self-advocacy and boundary-setting
• Create personalised plans for managing stress and preventing burnout
• Access appropriate accommodations and supports
• Explore techniques for embracing your autistic identity

Autistic burnout is a serious condition that can have long-term impacts if not addressed. If you're experiencing symptoms of burnout or need additional support, we encourage you to contact Your Therapy SA. We're here to help you REST, recover, and thrive.

If your NDIS plan doesn't provide sufficient funding for the support you need, this can exacerbate autistic burnout and potentially lead to long-term challenges. Addressing burnout early is crucial to maintain well-being and prevent the need for increased support in the future. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate these challenges and access the support you deserve. Our therapists are committed to providing understanding, patience, and specialised care to guide you through autistic burnout and towards a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Refer yourself or a loved one (with their permission) to Your Therapy SA.