Autistic Burnout And How To Avoid It

Have you ever experienced a burnout? The feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion? Well, Autistic Burnout is rather similar.

Autistic Burnout is when an autistic person feels a great deal of stress and exhaustion, caused by the demands of life. But it’s not like a burnout neurotypical people may experience. When experiencing autistic burnout, they may struggle to function in their normal day-to-day activities and have greater sensitivity to sensory stimuli.

It usually happens when they feel overwhelmed or overloaded. But burnout isn’t only related to stress. It can be related to transition, like puberty, moving, or starting at a new school or job.

Here are some common signs to look out for in case your loved one is experiencing an autistic burnout:

• Struggling to get started on tasks and make decisions
• Difficulty with self-regulation
• Difficulty with daily living skills
• Difficulty with speech and communication
• Difficulty with social interactions
• Social fatigue
• Increased sensory sensitivities
• An increased need for stimming or sensory input
• Difficulty making eye contact

Here are some ways you can help them to deal with their burnout:

• Show them understanding, unconditional love, acceptance, and empathy
• Ensure they rest and recharge as much as possible
• Give them space and solitude when necessary
• Believe them when they say that something is difficult
• Use their preferred method of communication
• Offer support in any way that you might be able – cooking meals, helping with cleaning or childcare, or simply just emotional support

To prevent burnout, it’s important to understand and accept their needs and limitations. They can only do and experience so much, so understanding these limits will help them to avoid Autistic Burnout.

ABA therapy can increase your child’s resistance to autistic burnout.

Reach out to Triangle ABA to start your child’s program today.