My Tips on Handling Neurodivergent Burnout

Burnout can happen to any one of us. Life's stressors can get to us and lead to times of exhaustion and a lower mood. However, neurodivergent individuals will experience a different form of burnout than neurotypical individuals. It might lead to more intense symptoms and a more challenging road back to stability. 

No matter what, though, burnout can be handled and helped. We are all capable of coming back from burnout better and stronger than before. 

What Can Cause Neurodivergent Burnout? 

A multitude of events can cause neurodivergent burnout. For some, it could occur because life's daily stressors feel extremely overwhelming and overpowering. However, burnout can also happen because of the need to constantly mask or socially camouflage with no end in sight. 

When there are little to no options for accommodations or appropriate stimulus, neurodivergent burnout can happen. Going to work or school without any support can be extremely stressful and tiresome, and if it is for long periods of time, burnout becomes inevitable. 

Neurodivergent burnout can happen to any of us for any reason. 

The Common Symptoms 

Everyone will experience burnout in their own ways. Depending on the cause, the individual, and the situation, the symptoms might appear differently each time.

Some common symptoms are… 

• Chronic Exhaustion

• Negative Effects on Physical/Mental Health

• Persistent Anxiety 

• A Feeling of Unease

• Enhanced Neurodivergent Traits

• Inability to Mask

• Time Perception Challenges

• Focus and Memory Impairments

• Irritability

My Tips on Burnout Recovery 

Every neurodivergent individual will recover from burnout differently. However, it is important to take the time to try to recover from burnout rather than ignore it, as it can become easy to fall into a burnout cycle. A burnout cycle can lead you to more challenging symptoms and a longer timeline for recovery. 

Move Naturally 

During times of burnout, you want to listen to your bodily needs. Stimulate yourself however necessary by moving in ways that feel natural and engage in sensory activities that benefit you. 

Practice Good Boundaries

It could be time to implement and enforce boundaries with your friends and family to ensure you do not continue to get overwhelmed. Boundaries can also help you recover and be supported. 

Unmask 

To recover from burnout, you might need to unmask for a period of time. When you allow yourself to be yourself, grounding will become easier, and you can feel stronger on your journey to heal.

Support Healthy Routines

During this time, you should maintain your healthy routines. This means eating, sleeping, and exercising in ways that support a healthy mind and body. 

Engage in What You Enjoy

Burnout might mean reconnecting with yourself. It could be time to engage with your special interests or spend time with friends or alone. Choose whatever helps you feel more connected with yourself. 

Enforce Reasonable Accommodations

If burnout occurs because reasonable accommodations were not provided in school or work, it is time to take action to change that. You do not want a burnout cycle to start. 

Ask for Help 

It is important to remember that it is okay to ask for help. If you need support or guidance, reach out to your friends and family for help. It could be the best way to come back from burnout. 

During neurodivergent burnout, it is essential to listen to what your body and mind needs. Don't allow burnout to control you. If you have questions or would like to learn more, send me a message or contact me through my website, Haley Moss.