What is known about Autistic Burnout?

Mental Health has come more into focus since COVID-19...

Autistic burnout is characterized by symptoms such as chronic exhaustion, decreased executive functioning, and increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli. Chronic exhaustion can lead to a loss of interest in activities, difficulty in maintaining social relationships, and challenges in completing simple tasks, such as brushing teeth, due to fatigue. This pervasive fatigue can negatively impact various aspects of life, including managing effective communication and decision-making in everyday life. Additionally, autistic individuals experiencing burnout often face sensory hypersensitivity, reducing their tolerance to environmental stimuli and decreasing their sensitivity threshold.

Social care and support are crucial in managing and recovering from autistic burnout. Having a support network where an individual is accepted for who they are and not shamed or judged is critical to recovery. Connecting with the autistic community can provide relief from minority stress, which is a significant contributor to autistic burnout. However, social connectedness and belongingness can also contribute to internalized stigma, so it is important to find a balance that supports the individual without exacerbating negative feelings.

To prevent and mitigate autistic burnout, strategies include setting manageable limits on energy levels through energy accounting, ensuring time off from high-stress activities, and engaging in activities that re-energize and promote relaxation. Learning how to set healthy boundaries and expectations from others, and what to do when others aren’t respecting boundaries, is also important. Understanding one’s own patterns of behaviour and feelings can help in recognizing and acting on the early signs of burnout, such as cancelling social plans to have more rest.

Autistic burnout is a significant and widely discussed phenomenon within the autistic community, though it is not yet formally recognized as a medical condition. It is characterized by intense physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion, often leading to a loss of skills and the ability to manage daily life. This condition is distinct from occupational burnout and clinical depression, though it shares some overlapping symptoms. Understanding the symptoms and the role of social care is crucial for supporting individuals experiencing autistic burnout.

### Symptoms of Autistic Burnout

1. **Chronic Exhaustion**:

– **Physical and Mental Fatigue**: Autistic burnout often begins with a pervasive sense of exhaustion that affects both physical and mental capacities. This fatigue can make it difficult to engage in daily activities, even those that were previously manageable.

– **Reduced Energy Levels**: Individuals may find it challenging to complete simple tasks, such as brushing their teeth or preparing meals, due to a significant depletion of energy.

2. **Loss of Skills**:

– **Executive Functioning**: There is often a noticeable decline in executive functioning, which includes planning, organizing, and decision-making. This can lead to difficulties in managing daily routines and responsibilities.

– **Social Skills**: Social interactions become more challenging, and individuals may experience a loss of social skills, making it harder to maintain relationships and communicate effectively.

3. **Increased Sensory Sensitivity**:

– **Sensory Overload**: Sensory hypersensitivity can increase, making it difficult to tolerate environmental stimuli such as bright lights, loud noises, or certain textures. This can lead to more frequent sensory overload and meltdowns.

– **Reduced Tolerance**: The threshold for sensory input may decrease, making even minor stimuli overwhelming.

4. **Emotional Dysregulation**:

– **Intense Emotions**: Individuals may experience more intense and overwhelming emotions, which can be difficult to manage. This can lead to increased anxiety, irritability, and mood swings.

– **Meltdowns and Shutdowns**: The frequency and intensity of meltdowns and shutdowns may increase, making it challenging to cope with stressors.

5. **Social Withdrawal**:

– **Avoidance of Social Interaction**: There is often a significant withdrawal from social activities and relationships. Individuals may find it too draining to engage in social interactions, leading to isolation.

– **Reduced Communication**: Communication may become more difficult, with individuals finding it hard to express themselves or understand others.

6. **Cognitive Challenges**:

– **Difficulty Concentrating**: Cognitive abilities may be impaired, making it hard to focus, process information, or complete tasks that require mental effort.

– **Memory Issues**: There may be a decline in memory capacity, leading to forgetfulness and difficulty retaining information.

### Social Care and Support

1. **Acceptance and Social Support**:

– **Peer Support**: Connecting with other autistic individuals can provide validation and emotional support. Peer support groups and online communities can be valuable resources for sharing experiences and coping strategies.

– **Understanding and Acceptance**: Being accepted for who they are, without the need to mask or pretend, can significantly alleviate the stress and exhaustion associated with burnout.

2. **Reducing Demands**:

– **Time Off and Reduced Expectations**: Taking time off from work, school, or other high-stress activities is essential for recovery. Reducing expectations and allowing for more rest and relaxation can help manage energy levels.

– **Flexible Schedules**: Implementing flexible schedules and routines can help individuals better manage their energy and avoid overexertion.

3. **Unmasking**:

– **Being Authentic**: Allowing oneself to be authentic and not mask autistic traits can reduce the cognitive and emotional strain of constantly trying to fit in.

– **Stimming**: Engaging in stimming behaviours can help reduce stress and provide a sense of comfort and regulation.

4. **Self-Advocacy and Health**:

– **Setting Boundaries**: Learning to set healthy boundaries and say “no” to tasks or expectations that are too demanding is crucial for preventing burnout.

– **Seeking Help**: Asking for and accepting help from others is an important skill for managing burnout. This can include seeking support from family, friends, or professionals.

5. **Lifestyle Adjustments**:

– **Healthy Routines**: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep, can help improve overall well-being and resilience.

– **Relaxation Techniques**: Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as yoga, meditation, or reading, can help manage stress and promote recovery.

References

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