Autistic overload is a physiological response to overstimulation experienced by a person with autism. This response can lead to a loss of self-control, at times at the expense of the safety of themselves and others. This experience can be frightening or even embarrassing, and the potential of experiencing a future meltdown can leave the individual in a constant state of anxiety. A natural response is isolation to prevent this event from occurring.
Types of Autistic Overload
Autistic Burnout
This type of autistic overload appears as a regression in behaviors. The individual is unable to carry out basic tasks (e.g., dressing themselves) they previously mastered due to being overwhelmed with stimuli. These burnouts can be temporary or last for extended periods of time, causing physical (e.g., headaches) or emotional (e.g., depression) symptoms as well.
Autistic Meltdown
A meltdown is a loss of control due to overstimulation resulting in inappropriate verbal (e.g., yelling) or physical (e.g., hitting) behavior.
Autistic Shutdown
A shutdown is essentially a meltdown directed inward. The individual will distance themselves from others and may exhibit sudden mutism.
Overload can be caused by emotional (e.g., anxiety), cognitive (e.g., struggling to solve a difficult problem), or sensory (e.g., loud noises) triggers. By understanding these triggers and responses, you can help your child navigate these challenging experiences.
Reference:
The Autistic Community. (2020). Understanding the autistic mind: Notebooks for navigating different minds. NeuroClastic, Inc.