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Struggling working in further education with ASD

Kenny_1622

I work in college, and its definately challenging for me with ASD. I really struggle a lot with long term times such as August to December as well as many other challengers. I use my music and head phones alot and I have quiet areas to go to for coping with everyday challenges also go on walks when I can. But the long term time is really overwhelming and hard to cope with. Near the end of each term I feel burnt out and really struggle the last 2 weeks, but the long term time is a major struggle for the last 6 weeks as im totally burnt out. My anxiety is super high and im having to talk myself into going into work every morning. I find this really hard to cope with this. Does anyone in education have similar issues and how do they cope ?

  • Dear Kenny_1622,

    It is great that you have reached out to the online community, it does sound like you are struggling with managing work but it is amazing how much you have kept going despite this difficulty. However, if you do need to take a break from work due to burn-out or overwhelm you can always approach your GP to see if they can help you have a period of time off work. If you do not need to do this, that is great but know the option is always there. It is important that you prioritise your health and wellbeing. 

    Burnout is a really common experience with autistic individuals, you may already know a lot of the information but I have linked our guidance on Autistic fatigue and burnout - that may be worth taking a look at. 

    I have also added our Employment guidance as there is lots of information on support that may be available

    I have also added some of the tips from our Anxiety guidance, some of them may be useful, but I know some may not apply to your experiences of anxiety.

    Understand the triggers

    Keep a diary to help identify when you are anxious, and what might make it worse.  

    Monitor and manage your energy levels

    Be aware of your energy levels after social interactions and other events/situations that you may find tiring or difficult.  Recharge by taking time for yourself and doing things you enjoy. 

    Make the environment work 

    Make adaptations to the environment where possible, for example lower unnatural light if too harsh. 
    Try noise-cancelling headphones to reduce sensory overload.  

    Self-soothe

    Use sensory tools and stimming to reduce anxiety levels, if that works for you.

    Relaxation and calming activities 

    Try relaxation methods such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga and exercise.  

    Visual schedules

    Visual schedules to help structure the day and reduce uncertainty within your day.

    Use an app

    The following app offers personalised support with anxiety.

    Molehill Mountain – includes: 

    • a system for tracking mood and identifying triggers
    • evidence-based tips on how to self-manage anxiety levels.

    Please reach out if you need any further support, I hope our online community are able to support you!

    Best wishes,

    Olivia Mod