Has your child with autism seemed especially drained or overwhelmed lately? As a parent, you may have experienced some challenges in recognizing and preventing autistic burnout. This issue is very real, and it can severely impact your child’s well-being—so, you must recognize the signs and causes.

While every person with autism experiences life differently, some common triggers seem to lead to periods of burnout frequently. Here are the five most common causes of autistic burnout, so you can get proactive about recognizing the early signs and adjusting to support your child.

Emotional Stress from Socializing

Socializing and making new friends can be a significant source of stress for some children with ASD. Trying to understand and adhere to social expectations, nuances, and protocols on a consistent basis can be exhausting. The ongoing emotional stress of balancing social demands and personal comfort can lead to autistic burnout in the long run.

Sensory Overload

Individuals diagnosed with autism frequently grapple with sensory sensitivities, often triggered by environments or situations that are overly loud, brightly lit, or overloaded with various sensory stimuli. Sensory overload arises when these stimuli intensify to an overwhelming degree, resulting in feelings of stress and feeling overwhelmed.

Masking or Camouflaging

Masking refers to the process by which autistic individuals try to hide or downplay their autistic traits or coping mechanisms to fit in and be more socially acceptable. This constant effort to be “normal” can be exhausting and lead to burnout. As masking requires a significant amount of energy and mental focus, consistent masking can lead to fatigue.

High Expectations and Pressure To Perform

The expectation to perform on specific levels is another common cause of autistic burnout. People with autism often face high expectations and pressures to “keep up” with others, whether it’s self-imposed or imposed by others. This continuous pressure may lead to frustration, a sense of failure, and eventually exhaustion or burnout—especially if they feel unable to live up to these high standards.

Insufficient Support and Resources

Lack of appropriate support and resources, such as emotional support, education programs, or necessary accommodations, can make it difficult for autistic individuals to manage their symptoms. Their unmet needs can contribute to an increased risk of autistic burnout.

Recognizing and Addressing Autistic Burnout

Creating a support network, including therapists and support groups, is crucial to prevent or address burnout and to develop an understanding between friends and family members. Establishing healthy boundaries, seeking autism therapy services, and developing self-awareness can also go a long way in reducing the risk of autistic burnout. Remember, finding balance and learning to prioritize self-care are integral to maintaining mental and emotional well-being for individuals living with ASD.