Shutdowns, Meltdowns, and Burnout: How They Interconnect

Three distinct emotional states in horizontal panels quiet person sitting alone with downcast

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

Split screen composition showing overwhelmed person surrounded by bright chaotic lights and sound

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 […]