Signs of Autism Burnout

What is Autistic burnout?

Autistic burnout is a syndrome conceptualised stemming from chronic life stress and a mismatch of expectations and abilities without adequate supports. It is characterised by pervasive, long-term (typically 3+ months) exhaustion, loss of function, and reduced tolerance to stimulus.

What are the signs of Autistic Burnout?

Signs of autistic burnout can be characterised as chronic exhaustion, loss of skills, and reduced tolerance to stimulus. This syndrome affects every part of their lives and lasting for long periods of time. Many first experienced autistic burnout during puberty, at the end of secondary education, or at other times of transition and changes in developmental expectations. 

Signs can include:-

• Loss of motivation

• Being easily overwhelmed

• Having difficulty communicating

• Feeling irritable or having meltdowns

• Withdrawing from loved ones

• Being unable to make decisions or perform daily living tasks

• Having difficulty self-regulating

• Procrastinating a lot

• Struggling with self-doubt

• Feeling drained or tired all the time

Ways of coping or reducing Autistic Burnout

Support via therapy can help to provide coping strategies and a better understanding of the signs of Autistic Burnout. Ways to relieve or prevent Autistic Burnout include:-

• Learning to recognise and act on early signs of Autistic Burnout

• Taking some time off and having more breaks can help to reduce load

• Seeking to have more formal support at school or work

• Understanding Autistic needs / characteristics – learning unmasking using comfort items, etc

• Learning how to set boundaries and having a healthy lifestyle

• Being with people who accept you for who you are so there is no need for masking or pretending.  This can be on a one-to-one basis or  in a community group – often shared lived experiences can help when meeting with other Autistic people.

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