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.
