Meltdowns and shutdowns appear to be a natural release valve for an overwhelmed autistic brain. They feel out of control and can be quite distressing.

While there are ways to push them off, I experience a "point of no return" after which I need some big release or I'm going to feel terrible for days.

Learning your triggers, as well as planning ahead for a safer experience if you do have a meltdown or shutdown can lessen our overall stress and shame.

(One thing I forgot to record in the episode is that for me, shutdowns are almost always low-verbal or I can't speak at all.)

Links:

1. Meltdowns & Shutdowns* https://embrace-autism.com/meltdowns-and-shutdowns/

2. How it feels to have an autistic meltdown and how you can help* https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/38f5MsC2mB5fnmCr5v77zDn/how-it-feels-to-have-an-autistic-meltdown-and-how-you-can-help

3. All About ‘Autism Meltdowns’: Why They Happen and How to Cope https://psychcentral.com/autism/autism-meltdowns

4. Autism Shutdown Vs Meltdown: What's the Difference? https://www.andnextcomesl.com/2022/06/autism-shutdown-vs-meltdown.html

Email list: https://mattia.ck.page/a6b7c9bf09

Episode Transcript

*autistic writer

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13 Autistic Meltdowns & Shutdowns