Autistic burnout

Autistic burnout is a state of physical and mental fatigue that shares several of its symptoms with clinical depression. It is often caused by the prolonged exhaustive process of masking, stress, poor nutrition, and chaotic life changes.

Burnout can last from a few days to years, and, of course, manifests differently for each individual.

Effects of burnout

(Non-exhaustive list)

• Loss of skills (verbal, social, and others)
• Loss of motivation
• Poorer executive function (ability to switch and engage on tasks)
• Physical and mental fatigue
• Sense of emptiness, pointlessness
• Higher emotional sensitivity
• Higher sensorial sensitivity

Dealing with burnout

Burnout is often tackled with some quality autistic self-care.

• Reduction of stress sources
  • Reduction of schedules
  • Falling back into a routine
  • Alone time
  • Reduced (and comfortable) sensory environments / quiet time
• Engaging with special interests
• Reduction (elimination, if possible) of masking
• Stimming