Autistic Burnout/Regression
Quote:
Regression is a complication that some autistic people experience when they are unable to meet life's demands. It is sometimes referred to as autistic burnout
Regression can be frightening and confusing both to an autistic person and their loved ones.
"They still have the ability to speak, or use sign language, or self care skills... Their mind and body are so tired and so exhausted, they're at a point where they no longer have the energy to expend to call up those skills and maintain and use them." Amythest Schaber[2]
Schaber lists several warning signs of autistic burnout.
More frequent or intense meltdowns
Appearing to lack motivation
Becoming less self-reliant
Seeming "more autistic"
Autistic regression may be sudden or gradual, and it may be just as much of a mystery to the autistic person as to their loved ones. In some cases, it is what causes previously undiagnosed people to seek a diagnosis, because they do not understand what is going on with them.
Because autistic people are often used to putting up a social facade (to pass as non-autistic), they may pretend to be okay when they are actually burning out.
Regression may be caused by
Life changes
Stress or Anxiety Disorders
Normalization
Trying to act "indistinguishable from their peers" can exact an enormous toll upon autistic people.
Abuse
Sensory Overload
Another Medical Condition
I would advise trying to find and end or ease the causes rather then trying to medicate it away (unless your symptoms are bieng caused by another condition)
_________________
“Self Acceptance is a process not a performance”
“You are autistic enough. And you always have been”
Professionally Identified and joined WP August 26, 2013
DSM 5: Autism Spectrum Disorder, DSM IV: Aspergers Moderate Severity.
14 May 2017, 4:28 pm
