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Burnout vs. Autistic Burnout: Understanding the Differences

A single lit candle with a slightly melted and uneven wax surface burns against a completely dark background. The flame glows warmly, with a blue tint near the wick and a golden hue towards the tip.
Photo by Parth Natani on Unsplash

Burnout is a fairly well-known concept, but autistic burnout is a distinct experience that requires different approaches to recovery. While both involve exhaustion, the causes and symptoms differ significantly. Understanding these differences is essential, as autistic people can experience both types of burnout, and the right support depends on correctly identifying which one is happening.


What is Burnout?


Burnout was first described by psychologist Dr. Herbert Freudenberger in the 1970s, primarily in relation to workplace stress. It is now officially recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO), in the IDC-11, as an “occupational phenomenon” caused by chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.


Burnout is typically characterised by:


  • Emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion.

  • Reduced performance or motivation at work.

  • Feelings of cynicism, detachment, or negativity towards one’s job.


Burnout is most often linked to excessive workloads, high-pressure environments, and lack of work-life balance. Recovery typically involves rest, setting boundaries, and reducing work-related stress.


What Is Autistic Burnout?


Autistic burnout, while sharing some similarities to non-autistic burnout (e.g. the symptom of exhaustion) is a different experience. Autistic burnout is not specifically caused by work, but rather the ongoing demands of living in a world that does not accommodate autistic needs. Examples of possible causes include:


  • Masking: Constantly suppressing autistic characteristics to fit into social or professional environments.

  • Sensory overload: Prolonged exposure to overwhelming sounds, lights, or social interactions.

  • Chronic social and communication pressures: The constant effort to navigate non-autistic expectations


Symptoms of Autistic Burnout


Like (non-autistic) burnout, autistic burnout involves deep exhaustion, but it can also come with:


  • Loss of skills: Difficulty with daily tasks that were previously manageable (including a further decrease in executive function).

  • Increased sensory sensitivity: Becoming more overwhelmed by noise, lights, or textures.

  • Difficulties with speech or communication: Struggling to find words or maintain conversations

  • Intense emotional distress: Increased anxiety, shutdowns, or meltdowns.


Why Does the Difference Matter?


Because the causes of burnout and autistic burnout are different, the strategies for recovery must also be tailored accordingly. Non-autistic burnout is often treated by reducing workload and taking breaks from professional responsibilities. In contrast, autistic burnout requires a more comprehensive approach that addresses the unique challenges autistic people face.


One key aspect of recovery is reducing masking, which means allowing yourself to stim, communicate naturally, and take breaks from social expectations. Minimising sensory overload is also crucial, whether by creating low-stimulation environments or using tools such as noise-cancelling headphones and tinted glasses. Accessing accommodations at work, school, or home can provide essential support, helping to create a more sustainable daily routine. Finally, rest and self-care must be prioritised, with an understanding that recovery from autistic burnout often takes longer and requires more than just time off.


Final Thoughts


Autistic people can experience both general burnout and autistic burnout, but the two are not the same. Misunderstanding this can lead to unhelpful advice—telling an autistic person to “just take a break from work” might not address the real issue. Recognising autistic burnout for what it is allows for more effective support, helping autistic people recover in a way that truly meets their needs.


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