Shutdowns, Meltdowns, and Burnout: How They Interconnect
For autistic adults, energy and sensory balance are fragile resources. When those resources run out, the result may be a shutdown, a meltdown, or—in the longer term—burnout. These experiences are often misunderstood, mislabeled, or treated as behavioral issues. In reality, they are neurological responses to overwhelming demands. In Embracing Self-Care for Autistic Burnout: Your comprehensive […]
Autistic Burnout vs Depression: How to Tell the Difference
Feeling exhausted, unmotivated, or emotionally numb can be frightening. For autistic adults, these signs often raise the question: Is this burnout, or am I depressed? While they can overlap, autistic burnout and depression are not the same—and confusing them can delay the right kind of support. In Embracing Self-Care for Autistic Burnout: Your comprehensive resource […]
Why Rest Looks Different for Autistic Adults
When most people think of “rest,” they imagine sleep, lounging on the couch, or a weekend getaway. But for autistic adults—especially those recovering from burnout—rest is far more complex. It’s not just about sleep; it’s about finding recovery in ways that respect sensory needs, energy levels, and authentic comfort. In Embracing Self-Care for Autistic Burnout: […]
The Neuroscience of Autistic Burnout: What’s Happening in the Brain?
Autistic burnout isn’t “just stress.” It’s a deeply rooted neurological and physiological response to chronic overwhelm, sensory overload, and social masking. But what’s actually happening in the brain during burnout—and how is it different for autistic individuals? Understanding the neuroscience of autistic burnout can empower both autistic adults and the people who support them. In […]
What Autistic Burnout Really Feels Like: Insights from Lived Experience
Autistic burnout is not just about feeling tired or overwhelmed—it’s a deeply consuming state of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion that affects every area of life. While many people might be familiar with general burnout, the autistic experience of burnout is uniquely complex, often misunderstood, and sorely underrepresented in mainstream discussions. In Embracing Self-Care for […]