Autistic Burnout vs Neurotypical Burnout

They are very different. What you may not realize is that as an autistic your burnout will not only cause a loss of skills or abilities but that loss might not be temporary. Join me to learn more in the new segment "Hey, Carole Jean" where I answer your questions about late identified autism.
Send your Questions for "Hey, Carole Jean" to: [e-mail] with the subject line "Hey, Carole Jean"
Get the Top 20 Warning Signs You May Be in Autistic Burnout & access to a Coaching Session on this to help you go through the list:
resources.mindyourautisticbra...

[@ArtyAntics]

For anyone who struggles with selective mutism, my therapist taught me to hum until my voice came back. At first I hum in my head till it eventually comes out my mouth. It doesn’t work 100% of the time but it does work sometimes so I always try it. If you have someone with you to do it that can help.

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Thank you so much for sharing this technique!!! I will have to remember this and give it a try if it happens to me in the future. I know this will be really helpful to someone who reads it today. Would you be okay with me sharing this and that you were the one to offer the insight on the show?

[@ArtyAntics]

@@BeyondChronicBurnout sure, share away :) I was mind blown when my counsellor told me. She also told me why the 4 in, hold and 4 out anxiety breathing exercises make me dissociate. Breathing in longer than out, 6 in, hold then 3 out to activates my nervous system rather than shut it down.

[@philosophyknits1969]

I will have to try this! Thank you so much!

[@ajmargison]

Every person on the planet needs to hear this.

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Andrew, thank you and I couldn't agree more!! Be sure to share with a friend.

[@erissablackthorn9444]

I feel like this is happening to me as well. I like doing art and i was in college. I was failing badly due to bad circumstances and too much happening at once, and i stopped going and kinda lost my enthusiasm for anything. Its been hard to go outside and help from support workers was slow due to bad sleep patterns and severe anxiety of going outside to meet anyone, and from making phone calls to any companies that would probably be able to help. During Covid lost my last support worker and been struggling to deal with pretty much everything and just kinda stuck. Im really in no fit state to work so im on disability benefits. I do hate it most of the time, because i like to work. Just cant deal with other people or jobs that require fast workers (sometimes i can work fast if im hyperfocused, know what im doing and if im not stressed about anything. But if i rush then i forget things or do a botched up job of what im working on. Im also a bit of a perfectionist which does make it annoying when i want to do anything and not happy with it every time).

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Hi Erissa! Thank you for watching and I hope this was helpful to you. I am so sorry you have experienced this and if you are looking for some additional information on Autistic Burnout I also have a video going over the Warning Signs for Autistic Burnout. I hope this helps.

[@ArtyAntics]

I 100% relate to this and I'm in the same boat most of the time. I did keep up my art those which helps me rest when I'm in burnout. I have a burnout box with simple creative projects. That way I don't have to use my brain and I can just fidget with a project till I'm rested again :)

[@stefansauvageonwhat-a-twis1369]

Yeah lol I was so confused about it for so long before I thought about being autistic. Called it mononucleoses, then depression, and now my autistic traits are harder to hide and its a very new experience. I was just trying to do things I wanted to be able to, used my willpower to try to power though highschool and now Im in university trying to figure out how to prevent it

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Powering through is how many of us survive, but now it is time for restoration and thrive. University was where I had a huge burnout from pushing myself and from seriously high expectations I placed on how well I was supposed to be doing. If you are looking for some additional resources to help, check out the Self Care Playlist here on the channel. Let me know if you have any questions. I am here to help.

[@buttercxpdraws8101]

Wow 🤩 Thank you so much for your videos and free resources 🙏 I hit autistic burnout just over 2 years ago and had a full breakdown, originally diagnosed with CPTSD, and recently discovered undiagnosed autism (at 48 yrs of age). I’m trying to come to terms with the fact that I have lost a considerable amount of skills since burnout which may not come back, and looking back at my life through the lease of autism, re-examining everything I thought I knew about myself. 🙏💕😉

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

You Are Not Alone my friend. And you are most welcome. Be sure to check out the latest zoom I hosted Ask me Anything about Autistic Burnout. I have a new resource out sharing 20 Warning Signs You Might Be in Autistic Burnout. You can get it on my website at www.socialautie.com

[@tomsale5142]

What skills have been lost why can't they come back with time I late diagnosed Asperger's hsd fybromyalgia symptoms but are the fybromyalgia symptoms burnout which think they could be

[@mir127]

What skills exactly ?

[@The_Silver_Spider]

Interesting thought about selective mutism. I often find myself not knowing what to say in the heat of the moment, and it can take a long time before I'm able to identify my thoughts clearly enough to articulate them, either verbally or in text form. I believe it's not uncommon in the neurotypical world either so perhaps it's not a specifically Aspie trait for me personally. ~Colin

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Thanks for your insights Colin and for being part of the discussion.

[@age93]

What you’re speaking of is processing speed not selective mutism. It is a cognitive function. Having autism makes it much more difficult.

[@stefansauvageonwhat-a-twis1369]

Its not really being unable to think clearly, its just feels like your mouth muscles disconnect from your body and talking is offline when in a stressful enviroment

[@mdow1716]

​@@stefansauvageonwhat-a-twis1369 Thats why Everyone should speak up

[@stefansauvageonwhat-a-twis1369]

@@mdow1716 i dont see how that would help

[@fleischliebe430]

Allistic ADHDer here. I had a burnout in college and it took me about 5 years to recover. and what you describe sounds like what I experienced.

[@Naturegirl1976]

I'm now dealing with autistic burn out and going to either talk therapists or shrinks don't ever help me but make the issues worst. I'm grief stricken by the loss of my close friend joe and beloved bird spike who died on 2/14/21, my cousin jolyn died on August 17th 2021, joe died this mother's day back to back w/o a damned break. I'm also having to live with my folks again which is the only positive in my life right now. But they're going to Florida from June 8th-16th so I'll be home alone dealing with all of these stressors. I was once a happy go lucky person now I could care less if I were to die in my sleep

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Janae, I am so, so very sorry for the great amount of loss you have suffered. Please know that you are not alone. Today is the 8th and I know you said your family is going out of town. Join us over on Instagram @Mind_Your_Autistic_Brain and chat in the comments section if you feel up to it. Sometimes just reading other posts and comments is helpful when you are feeling disconnected. Finding a professional to help process isn't always easy but there are some great ones out there who do get it and even those who are ND.

[@sampreston1791]

I'm hanging on by my fingernails atm due to burn out. I know why (entering 3rd year of my kids crisis and self harm/attempts) I have my son, care staff, social workers, court hearings... all demanding attention and updates, questions etc.. plus ive always allowed my asd partner his needs but he doesn't reciprocate the same space, time or resources to me and I do all the chores so essentially I don't get designated days off because chores always need doing or I need to visit son in care/hospital, be in a meeting, only driver so taxi people about ..... I know my healing but just can't get space to do it, its like because I don't have a conventional "job" I don't get the same acknowledgement of "sick leave" or that need to just not be the one propping everyone else up. There doesn't seem any advice for this type of situation and I'm right on the edge of what I can physically and mentally bear

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Sam I am so very sorry to hear you are struggling so much right now. There are so many unmet needs as care givers and parents when we are also running on fumes and doing it all without support, it is crippling. Please take a look at my Burnout Page and I offer a 1:1 coaching package to help start the burnout restoration journey. There is an application for coaching and I offer a free 30 minute appointment to discuss options and resources to meet you where you are. I look forward to meeting you.

[@claireseymour4902]

Bless you, that's tough. I hope you've managed to find space to slow down and the pressure has abated.

[@shylathiel]

Thank you for your videos. You deserve to have the algorithm share you more!

[@anjachan]

I had a meltdown today ... I feel better now after I stayed home and slept a little longer.

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Sleep or rest is a good way to recover. Have you identified what caused you to have a meltdown and if so, going forward what would help you so that you the reasons that caused it don't happen again? Getting to the root is always the best way forward in my book because when we can identify what the need is we have, if it is aligned with our values and who we are then we can set a healthy boundary around it to ensure it is met. Wishing you energy and thrive.

[@anjachan]

@@BeyondChronicBurnout it was to much after 8 ours at work. I went to the city after work. Had to do some things. Next time I go friday after a short day of work or I take a day free.

[@midnightmule2626]

Thank you for sharing ... I have heard other aspies saying that we should try to identify what causes the issues ... I will try to do that, but nothing springs to mind ...

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

If you would like to join the Burnout to Balance FREE course it will walk you through a 5 step workbook with additional helpers to aid in identifying the underlying causes of your burnout specifically. Let me know if you have any questions on this once you get started.

[@AnimilesYT]

I never thought I had the problem of selective mutism. But when I try to explain how I feel I just can't put it into words and I end up saying something that doesn't convey what I want to say at all. I want to say it all, I can think it and I can type it, but I can't say it. I don't go completely mute and I can say some things, so I never recognised it as selective mutism. Do you think I should message the people around me instead of talking to them about some things?

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

I experience something similar to what you are describing above. When I observe that I am having difficulty getting my thoughts into words I have found it is best if I type an email, text or even write it on paper. When you aren't in a temporary mutism situation write out and share with those closest to you and share what you experience and that writing etc is the most helpful way for you to communicate in those times. It makes a huge difference and also creates a safe and comfortable space for you within your relationships. Hope this helps.

[@TheWitchesHive]

Thanks for making this video

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

I am so glad that it was helpful and I like the term you use, "freezies" it really sums it up doesn't it. I hope the download helps as well.

[@christafarmer9705]

I can completely relate. I call them communication pauses. However, “Freezes” does sound better. I can hear the person talking and when they look at me, (my son more specifically) they ask if I’m okay & if I heard them. My mind has formulated a response to the question(s) asked but, my face shows no emotion and it’s as though everything besides my brain has paused. I don’t blink, move a muscle & sometimes I find that I’ve even stopped breathing. I’m still trying to understand what my triggers are that cause this to take place.

[@ivanaldana1030]

Thank you this is helpful to understand and to help those in need.

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Glad it was helpful!

[@allisonleighandrews8495]

Thank you for this. ❤

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

You're welcome 😊

[@claireseymour4902]

I feel for you. Im working 12 hours, but only just. I have to wear ear plugs and sunglasses and i go to bed as soon as i get home. When i try to explain my experience to medical professionals they look at me like I'm crazy. There definitely should be more research and understanding in this area😢

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

I have been conducting a global Spicy Research Study over the last 2 years and what is becoming very clear is the number one unmet need that is the largest contributor to spicy burnout for most of us is the unmet need of emotional safety. Be sure to check out my new book, Unleashing Sustainable Energy and see which Spicy Pepper you are using the Spicy Pepper Burnout Quiz. Get them both on my website at: mindyourautisticbrain.com/

[@KM-ub9yq]

Hi there, Thank you for sharing this with us. Actually my sp partner is going through this burnout yet he doesn’t want to talk about it or do anything about it and it’s been for quite a while and I just don’t know what I can do to support. I suggested him to see doctors but he is not taking anything… I haven’t see him for a long time and he just rejects talking about it and not doing anything to make himself feel better. I’m really concerned.

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

It can be very difficult to talk and communicate during autistic burnout. The executive dysfunction is really challenging and just functioning at the bare minimum can be more than we can handle sometimes. Please see if you can get him a copy of my Burnout to Balance Mini email course. It comes with 5 days of email coaching to help better understand, process, identify and manage your burnout symptoms. The link can be found on my website at www.socialautie.com Please let me know if you have any questions and I am happy to help. My email to send questions is [e-mail]

[@mir127]

What kind of skills ? I feel like almost anything related to my frontal lopes is affected, and are not getting better even after years- like easy thoughts and problems are too complex. Please tell me it can get better, I don't want to live like this anymore

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

I discovered for myself and my clients have been discovering this as well, that after about 2 years in burnout restoration those lost or diminished skills and abilities we lost during burnout are returning. For me, the first one was the return of my creative writing abilities. Check out my new book "Unleashing Sustainable Energy" in a variety of accessibility formats including open dyslexic font and video with captions to help getting the information more accessible for those experiencing burnout. Get it at: mindyourautisticbrain.com/

[@rainbowgirl55]

How do I get hold of the worksheet you were referring to please?

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

This is a link to the Top 20 Warning Signs You May Be in Autistic Burnout. You will find links to a coaching session on Burnout using this list and a link to access the Burnout To Balance 5 day email course with workbook. socialautie.ck.page/af5e10de27

[@lauraneuhold92]

How do I access the quiz? It told me I have access to it and when I click on "Take the Quiz", it just tells me to enter what my quiz results were. Is there some kind of glitch or am I missing something?

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

When you enter into the Module to take the Quiz, scroll down and the quiz will be in the Lesson Box. Click on the quiz image to begin. Let me know if you aren't seeing it on your end. I've just checked it and everything looks good on my end. Let me know if you are on your phone or a pc so I have an idea if you are still having trouble. Thanks for reaching out and I hope it is working for you now.

[@claireseymour4902]

2 years and counting. It coincided with perimenopause😢

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

The shifts that happen during perimenopause are huge and especially impactful when you are neurodistinct. Claire, if there is any particular are you are really finding hard right now or if you have a question you'd like to get more information on please feel free to either share it here or send it via email to : [e-mail] and add the subject line: Talk Show Topic.

[@lauraneuhold92]

Same here, only coinciding with menopause. 😭 I feel completely shut down. I really want to do things but I just can't. I haven't even been able to earn a living in about 3 years. Even trying to do online things to earn money (which has been a dream of my whole life - to earn money from home) is proving impossible right now. 😭 I just want to wake up and be myself again.

[@dylancuthbert3207]

Is selective mutism when you wanna talk but you can't talk or is it where you just have nothing else to say. I had a burnout for a year and after that now I can't talk much and think about anything. Or if I'm in a social situation I just can't speak alot or it's the same words over and over again. And it's like I have more autistic traits that I never had when I was younger.

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Hi Dylan! Apologies for the delayed reply, I've been sick with a virus for a few weeks. Selective mutism is most often described as when you want to talk but can't however many of us also experience situational mutism during burnout and high stress situations where our brains shutdown and we can't articulate in the moment. Hope this helps.

[@Ns-mz4vr]

Hi did you recoverd from burnout? And do antidepressiva helps? Im 20 months b.o and stil can not do a lot

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

I have been Burnout, Shutdown and Meltdown free for going on 4 years now. There are many elements that are the foundation to burnout restoration. Take a look at the Burnout page information here to get started: resources.mindyourautisticbrain.com/burnout

[@tomsale5142]

Any pain symptoms? Fir me everyday years

[@user-zu5um2vo4w]

If you can, please enable subtitles

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

It shows subtitles enabled on my dashboard for all videos. Double check you have activated them on your settings wheel to the bottom right of your video window. Hope that helps. I heavily rely on them myself so I know how important subtitles are. Have a great day.

[@asdf-ot5xn]

​@@BeyondChronicBurnout I'm using the KZbin Android app and it shows captions as being disabled

[@tomsale5142]

So how do we no if it's this causing the pain or the eds hypomobility

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Great Question!! With co-occurring health condition like EDS or hEDS it can be hard to tell until you begin restoration. The physical pain experienced during burnout can be intensified more than your usual but it isn't something you can identify clearly until you begin to move down the Spicy Pepper Scale of Burmnout. Be sure to take the Spicy Pepper Burnout Quiz on our website to determine where you are in burnout right now so that you can begin those first steps to restoeration with the tips based on your pepper type. It is on mindyourautisticbrain.com/

[@tomsale5142]

@@BeyondChronicBurnout well I've had CFS before fybromyalgia or diagnosed neurosthenia 1998 very hard to make headway thankyou

[@katladyfromtheNetherlands]

too bad i lost the use of my legs cause of burnout sleeping 22 hours a day for years, no its not laziness

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

You are so correct it is not laziness in any way. One of my burnouts really triggered my autonomic dysfunction and POTS and I had massive loss of muscle use and wasn''t able to stand or walk for quite a while. How are you doing now?

[@tomsale5142]

@@BeyondChronicBurnout iv had pots before fybromyalgia no idea has Asperger's though my grandfather told me I was different my.mum has severe ms obviously Asperger's are you totaly ok.now is pain common are you hypermobile?

[@tomsale5142]

Do you fnd then? I have elements of find fybromyalgia hope you are feeling better

[@katladyfromtheNetherlands]

@@tomsale5142 I dont know I dont have an official diagnosis except BPD. What I know is I wanted to get away from everybody. The World was asking so many things of me and I just collapsed, more psychlogically befre physically.

[@katladyfromtheNetherlands]

@@tomsale5142 I think its Guillain-Barré Syndroom

[@hiruki8]

No subtitles :(

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

Thank you so much for letting me know. I've looked at it and have no idea why the subtitles disappeared. Give me a bit to figure out how to add them back. I am in the midst of a huge move. Apologies for the caption issue. I will get it fixed as soon as I can.

[@maddeleein]

is the autistic burnout same for males and females on the spectrum?

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

There are variations from person to person regardless of gender. Burnout over time from one burnout season to another will also present differently within the same person. Learning to identify what burnout warning signs show up consistently for you and how to identify those Sign Posts for new ones makes a HUGE difference. IF you'd like to learn more about ND Burnout and RESToration take a look at my burnout resource page: resources.mindyourautisticbrain.com/burnout

[@maddeleein]

@@BeyondChronicBurnout tysm 🙌🏼🧡

[@bufficliff8978]

Dude, it's the same. When someone who's not autistic gets burned out it's because they over worked (AKA overstressed) without taking adequate care of themselves and correctly regulating. It's the same.

[@BeyondChronicBurnout]

You are correct in that there are similarities in the causation however it tis the experiences and how burnout impacts an ND brain and body versus a neuro-majority brain and body that differ in burnout. Hope this is a bit clearer. I appreciate your comment.