Meltdowns vs Shutdowns

Meltdowns are an autism-specific term for when an autistic gets overstimulated. This looks different for every autistic person but some common behaviors are stimming, thrashing, hitting, pacing, rocking, etc. This is an outward expression of emotion in an attempt to regulate themselves.

Shutdowns are the opposite where the autistic goes inside themselves. This can look like going non-verbal (another autism-specific term) and not responding to external stimuli.

Triggers differ from person to person. For me, sensory overload will trigger meltdowns and shutdowns.

When you notice an autistic person struggling, it is best to ask what they need and not assume. If they are non-verbal, give them yes or no options. These reactions to triggers are not something we can control, but rather just responses to the environment.

There can be a lot of shame after these reactions and it is best not to judge or try to change these actions. Instead, help accommodate them and regulate them with whatever coping mechanisms work for them. Ask how you can support them in those moments before they happen, not during.

This was hard for me to explain so I hope this made sense!