Do you or someone you love have autistic traits? Chances are if the answer is “yes” there will come a time when the person in question experiences what can only be described as “autistic burnout.”
This feeling can manifest differently from one person to the next it could range from becoming overwhelmed and overburdened by activities throughout their life, to having difficulty managing daily routines.
No matter which form it takes, though, autistic burnout can be an incredibly difficult experience for those who suffer through it and yet many don’t realize that help is available.
In this article, we’ll explore what exactly constitutes autistic burnout and discuss ways to address it so individuals affected can find relief quickly and efficiently.
What Are The Sign Of Autistic Burnout?
According to Clarke, M, autistic burnout is a condition in which the person with autism experiences physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion.
They may feel overwhelmed by their daily routine and have difficulty coping with their environment, leading them to become physically and emotionally drained. Neurotypical people who experience autistic burnout often report feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed.
Signs And Symptoms Of Autistic Burnout
The signs and symptoms of autistic burnout vary from person to person but can include:
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Lack of motivation or interest in activities
- Irritability or frustration
- Social withdrawal
- Decrease in functioning level
- Changes in appetite
- Low self-esteem
- Mood swings
- An increase in meltdowns or outbursts
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Increased sensitivity to sensory input
- Difficulty concentrating
- Emotional exhaustion
- Chronic life stress
- Repetitive behaviors
- Intense physical pain such as headaches or stomachaches
- Feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks
- Feeling like life has no purpose or meaning
- Loss of interest in hobbies and interests
These are just some of the signs that could indicate someone is experiencing autistic burnout. If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself or someone you know, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional who can provide an individualized treatment plan.
How to Overcome Burnout?
If you are feeling overwhelmed or burned out, you should identify the symptoms and make the following lifestyle adjustments to overcome burnout as soon as possible.
Recognize the Signs of Autistic Burnout
MIDSS’s expert stated that the first step in overcoming burnout in autistic people is to recognize the signs that you are feeling overwhelmed.
Common symptoms include feelings of fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, sudden mood shifts, and physical sensations such as headaches or tightness in your chest.
If you notice any of these signs in autistic adults or children for an extended period of time, it’s important to seek help from a professional who can help you manage your emotional state.
Take Time for Self-Care
Self-care is essential for anyone trying to overcome burnout. Taking time to rest and relax can help reduce stress levels and give you the energy needed to cope with everyday tasks.
Try activities such as yoga or meditation that can help bring your body into balance and reduce stress levels.
Additionally, make sure to get enough sleep each night; this will ensure that your body has time to recuperate from the day’s activities and will give you more energy during the day.
Prioritize Self-Care and Set Boundaries
Maintaining a strong foundation of self-care is essential in minimizing burnout. Individuals with autism should prioritize activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
This can include establishing a consistent sleep schedule, engaging in regular physical activity, and participating in hobbies or leisure activities that bring joy and relaxation.
In addition, setting boundaries with others by limiting exposure to sensory overstimulation and learning to say “no” to situations that may be too stressful or demanding can help prevent burnout.
Develop a Support System
Connecting with others within the autistic community who understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism can be incredibly beneficial.
Joining a support group or connecting with other individuals with autism and their families can provide valuable advice, understanding, and encouragement.
Moreover, having a trusted friend or family member who understands your unique needs and personal challenges can be an essential ally when it comes to overcoming burnout.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
At times, autistic burnout may be severe or chronic, requiring professional intervention and support.
Therapists, psychologists, or other mental health professionals with expertise in autism can help individuals develop strategies tailored specifically to their unique needs to cope with stress, build resilience, and manage sensory sensitivities.
In rare cases, suicide prevention programs may also be needed for people overcoming autistic burnout.
Educational and Employment Accommodations
Schools and workplaces should also be practical and accommodating for individuals with autism in order to prevent burnout.
This can include flexible scheduling, providing access to sensory breaks and quiet areas, and allowing the use of technology and other tools to support learning and productivity.
Those with autism should not hesitate to request reasonable accommodations to ensure their success and well-being in these settings.
Conclusion
Overcoming autistic burnout requires a multi-faceted approach that prioritizes self-care, builds connections with supportive individuals, and addresses unique challenges faced by people with autism.
By recognizing the signs of burnout that affect autistic adults or autistic children early on and taking proactive steps to manage stress and sensory sensitivities, and adapting to one’s environment, an autistic person can develop resilience and maintain a more balanced life.
Remember, reaching out for help and tapping into the available resources is essential to successfully navigate and in preventing autistic burnout.
Published by HOLR Magazine.