Healthcare

Autistic Burnout

Learn about what Autistic burnout is. In this video, people who have gone through this tell their stories.

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Summary
  • Autistic burnout is experienced by Autistic people of all ages. This is the result of having one’s access needs not being met for a long time. 
  • Autistic burnout involves 1) severe physical or cognitive fatigue, 2) loss of tolerance to stimuli, and 3) loss of skills – see this article for more information.
  • Recovery from Autistic burnout involves shifting the balance of energy-draining vs. energy-recharging activities.
Key terms:
Social model of disabilityThis idea says that people are not the problem, the world is. The way places and rules are made often don’t work for everyone. Instead of trying to change people, we should change the world to work better for all kinds of people. That means making things easier to use and fair for everyone.
Access needsWhat anyone needs for full and meaningful participation
Autistic burnoutWhat happens when Autistic people do not have their needs met for a long time. 

During Autistic Burnout, an Autistic person may:
Feel exhausted 
Feel extra sensitive to lights, sounds, or smells
Lose skills and have a harder time doing tasks
Attribution:
Community Panel (5/2/2023)
Year Published:
2023
Video Length:
56:14