Autistic Burnout

Have you ever heard, “Well, just do self-care” or “Take a break and get back to it” when you’ve disclosed you are exhausted or experiencing burnout? For autistic individuals, the neuronormative breaks or self-care will not prevent (or help us get out of) autistic burnout. Neurotypicals experience burnout with a sense of overwhelm or fatigue, and they can typically decrease burnout with self-care, stress reduction, and boundaries.

Autistic burnout is different: it is a state of exhaustion and requires more attention and strategies to reduce.

What Causes Autistic Burnout?

Multiple things cause autistic burnout. Sensory overload is a common theme among autistic individuals. If you’ve ever been in a crowded room with lots of people talking, bright lights, uncomfortable dress shoes, itchy formal clothes, and people bumping into you, then you probably understand sensory overload. Social demands, lack of support, masking, chronic stress, and changes in routine can all lead to autistic burnout. Most neurotypicals don’t understand the amount of work and steps that are involved in engaging in a social interaction (that doesn’t involve your interests). It’s a lot to think about and takes a lot of energy!

But the most common cause of autistic burnout may be a lack of understanding from others. When we feel we are not accepted or understood, this can exacerbate feelings of isolation and contribute to stress.

What Are Some Symptoms of Autistic Burnout?

• Difficulty with Emotional Regulation

• Heightened Expression of Autistic Traits

• Increased Desire for Stimming

• Challenges with Adapting to Change

• Struggles with Planning, Organization, and Decision-Making

• Sensory Overwhelm

• Social Interaction Difficulties

• Cognitive Exhaustion

• Increased Sensitivity to Everyday Sensory Inputs

• Tendency to Avoid Social Situations

• Decline in Certain Skills

• Reduced Tolerance for Specific Foods

•Chronic exhaustion

•Reduced Tolerance of Stimuli

(Neff, 2024)

What Are Some Coping Strategies for Autistic Burnout?

Recognizing your current state concerning your nervous system is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and promoting effective self-regulation. Understanding whether you are in a state of high alert, stress, or calm allows you to adopt appropriate strategies to either downregulate or upregulate your nervous system. Downregulation techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or relaxation exercises, can help calm an overactive nervous system and reduce feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. Conversely, upregulation strategies, such as physical activity, engaging in stimulating activities, or social interaction, can be beneficial when energy levels are low or when motivation is needed. By being attuned to your nervous system's state and employing these strategies, you can foster emotional balance, enhance resilience, and improve your ability to cope with daily challenges.

We Want to Come Alongside You on Your Journey

If you are an autistic individual in Florida experiencing feelings of burnout, it’s important to know that you are not alone, and support is available. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore your experiences, develop coping strategies, and regain a sense of balance. We feel that we are equipped with the knowledge and skills to support autistic individuals, helping you navigate the challenges of burnout and reclaim your strengths. Whether you reside in Pensacola, Tallahassee, Miami, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, or anywhere in Florida, allowing us to support you on your journey can be a significant step toward improving your well-being. Don’t hesitate to take this important step for your health and happiness — your well-being matters.

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