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
  • I find that immersing myself in activities which I truly enjoy or am really very passionate about (otherwise known as "Special Interests"!) not only provide a welcome distraction from distress but also help me to recharge and (really very often!) relax, which (in turn!) works toward reducing burnout! I've found this to be a really very helpful strategem indeed - and would very much recommend it (as in to do so!) If you're not certain as to what his interests may be, perhaps you could introduce to him something which you suspect he might like, or perhaps even ask him about it - if you're able to do so! Does he have any childhood interests in which you might be able to rekindle? :-) (Also, I really do hope that this doesn’t come across as being either arrogant or pretentious—it's not my intention at all, and I'm really very sorry if it does/seems to be so! To be honest, I’m not sure as to how it might sound- but I just wanted to express this as best I could!) :-)

  • Hi RQR. it looks like your original post did post.  you are very kind to share this.   i think that is definitley  something to encourage.  he tends to submerge himself in TV things like Anime and other japanese drams when he's overwhelmed.   I didn't know thats what it was of course But  i can see now twhat it is - a way of keeping he overwhelm at bay.  

Reply
  • Hi RQR. it looks like your original post did post.  you are very kind to share this.   i think that is definitley  something to encourage.  he tends to submerge himself in TV things like Anime and other japanese drams when he's overwhelmed.   I didn't know thats what it was of course But  i can see now twhat it is - a way of keeping he overwhelm at bay.  

Children
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