For many young adults on the autism spectrum, the daily demand to conform to neurotypical standards can be immensely draining. By working to fit into a neurotypical world consistently and over time, this can result in what is increasingly becoming known as “autistic burnout”. 

Autistic burnout is a state of profound physical and mental exhaustion that affects those on the autism spectrum frequently placed in challenging environments. These environments require constant adaptation and coping with social norms that feel unnatural, bringing on feelings of fatigue. 

This fatigue is not just about feeling tired–it’s about facing a world that relentlessly demands their energy.

Understanding Autistic Burnout

Autistic burnout tends to manifest as intense fatigue that diminishes a person’s ability to function as they normally would. They likely withdraw from social interactions and activities, and may even feel more separated from things that once interested them. They may experience increased sensitivity to sensory input, heightened anxiety, and a resurgence of some behaviors. 

The burnout is typically triggered by the constant need to mask autistic traits to meet societal expectations, a process that can be mentally and emotionally draining. The demands being placed on the individual are exceeding their capacity.

What Causes Autistic Burnout

Autistic burnout is profoundly influenced by the constant pressure to hide autistic traits. This includes suppressing natural behaviors to avoid social stigma and maintain peer relationships, which can be exhausting.

Additionally, individuals on the autism spectrum often face challenges in filtering excessive sensory and social input, which contributes to burnout. The constant expectation to perform social and sensory processing that aligns with neurotypical standards can be incredibly overwhelming.

Signs and Symptoms of Autistic Burnout

For young adults, autistic burnout manifests through both physical and emotional signs. Physically, these individuals may experience profound fatigue and a sizable decrease in their ability to tolerate social interactions, leading to increased isolation.

Emotionally, there might be a significant drop in their ability to handle daily tasks that were once manageable–this includes everything from personal care to professional obligations. Feelings of disorientation, detachment, and pessimism are common experiences.

Preventative Measures and Coping Strategies for Autistic Burnout

To manage and prevent autistic burnout, the key is to build self-awareness. That way, the individual can more easily recognize personal limits and earlier signs of burnout. Establishing a lifestyle that prioritizes rest, sets boundaries for social interactions, and incorporates stress management techniques is vital.

Learning to advocate for accommodations in both educational and professional settings–such as flexible work schedules, access to quiet spaces, and the use of sensory aids–can support their needs and foster a more sustainable routine.

Understanding and managing autistic burnout is crucial for ensuring the well-being of autistic young adults. Programs like Gersh Experience are tailored to address these needs by providing environments and strategies that reduce burnout risks. For more guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out here.

Resources:

https://www.spectrumnews.org/news/autistic-burnout-explained/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/beyond-mental-health/202312/what-is-autistic-burnout