Autistic burnout - is there any way to help?

I'm the mother of a very late diagnosed adult son with autism.   He's now 38, diagnosed two years ago.  Over the years he has had many autistic shutdowns we have come to realise.   They happened about twice a year and he would isolate himself for a week or two.  Usually end up depressed and needing help.  .  It could be that is what he is having now, but i  think, from what i have read it is a burnout.  its already more than 2 weeks, and there is no sign of any change.   He's been at uni for 18 months and putting a lot of pressure on himself.  Bur he has also really enjoyed it and has a wonderful girlfriend.  He lives alone and obviously  its hugely worrying for those of us that love him as he just won't communicate in any way.  Phone turned off,  front door barricaded.  No contact with his uni or his therapist.    We don't know if he's dead or alive or depressed/suicidal unless we enter his flat uninvited which he hates, of course.  I did see him yesterday, and he seemed to be 'normal' apart from not wanting to see me or anyone else.  I am now getting used to this new normal  and realsie there is nothing i can do - or is there?  

can anyone offer any similar experience/advice or reassurance.   

Parents
  • Hi. Welcome to the forum. I am sorry to hear about your son having shutdowns. Autistic burnout is a horrible thing and must be incredibly worrying for family.

    I think that there are things that you can do, but can only talk about my own experiences. I think it sounds like you are doing all the right things, already. Just by wanting to help.

    For me, I have a crisis plan (for when I am in one or bordering on one) and a relapse prevention plan (mainly involving spoon theory)

    I also was going to post as above about the link and searching for previous threads.

    Best wishes to you and your son.

  • thanks so much for your reply  so helpful to have this.

Reply Children
No Data