Understanding Autistic Burnout

Autistic burnout is a real phenomenon that researchers have only recently become aware of. It is defined as intense physical, mental, or emotional exhaustion, often accompanied by a loss of skills that some adults with autism experience. Burnout is caused in part by the cumulative effect of having to navigate a world that is designed for neurotypicals. It can be caused by doing too much, pursuing special interests to the exclusion of other things, experiencing major stressful events or changes, and feeling a lack of appreciation or accomplishment. It is important to recognize the signs of burnout and take steps to prevent it by understanding our limits and taking breaks sooner rather than later.