Autistic burnout: Why daily tasks can feel overwhelming

First published online 30 Oct 2023.

Why this study was done

Autistic burnout is a deeply exhausting and often overwhelming experience that many autistic people face. It’s not the same as regular work burnout—it’s more intense, lasts longer, and is tied to the constant effort of living in a world not built for autistic people.

Although researchers have started studying autistic burnout, most studies have focused on defining it or creating tools to measure it. What’s been missing is a deeper look at how autistic people actually experience burnout in their daily lives.

What the study did

The researchers analysed 249 Reddit threads where autistic people talked about their experiences with burnout. Reddit is a popular platform for autistic people to share openly and anonymously.

They used both quantitative (counting how often things were mentioned) and qualitative (looking at the meaning behind what was said) methods to understand:

• What autistic burnout feels like
• What causes it
• How people cope or recover

What the study found

Core Experiences of Autistic Burnout:

1. Chronic Exhaustion

• Feeling tired all the time, even after sleeping.
• Sleep patterns were disrupted—some slept too much, others couldn’t sleep at all.

2. Increased Sensory Sensitivities

• Everyday sounds, lights, and textures became unbearable.
• Noise and light were the most common triggers.

3. Social Withdrawal

• Many people pulled away from work, friends, and social life.
• Some had to quit jobs or avoid all social contact to recover.

4. Cognitive and Emotional Struggles

• Brain fog, forgetfulness, and loss of skills.
• Anxiety, stress, and a sense of apathy or disconnection.

5. Physical Ailments

• Some reported pain, skin issues, stomach problems, and other physical symptoms—an area not widely discussed in previous research.

How People Cope and Recover

Reddit users shared many self-care strategies, including:

• Reducing sensory and social input (e.g., staying in quiet, dark spaces).
• Being alone to recharge.
• Physical care like eating simple foods, resting, and exercising.
• Using routines to manage daily life.
• Stimming (self-soothing movements or actions).
• Medication or marijuana (though experiences varied).
• Support from trusted people, but only when chosen by the individual.

The key takeaway: autonomy—being in control of how they recover—was essential for healing.

What Causes Autistic Burnout?

While most users focused on their current experiences rather than causes, some mentioned:

• Masking (hiding autistic traits to fit in).
• Trying to function in a neurotypical world.
• Not recognising personal limits.

What this means

Autistic burnout is real, complex, and often long-lasting. It affects the body, mind, and emotions. Autistic people know what helps them recover—what they need most is to be listened to, supported, and given control over their own healing.

For Healthcare and Support Services:

• Professionals need training to recognise and support autistic burnout.
• Services should be flexible and tailored to individual needs.
• Autistic people must be involved in designing support systems.

For Workplaces:

• Offer accommodations like flexible hours, quiet spaces, and remote work.
• Create policies that support mental health and sensory needs.

For Society:

• Increase awareness and understanding of autistic burnout.
• Reduce stigma and promote acceptance of neurodiversity.

This study was conducted by:

Dr. Megan M. Clarey, Dr. Susan Abel, A/Prof. Michael J. Ireland & Prof. Charlotte Brownlow

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Disclaimer: The QDRN has utilised generative AI to refine the wording of this plain language summary. All content has been checked for accuracy, appropriate tone and clarity and approved by the author.