B is for Burnout: Understanding and Preventing Overload 🔥

Celine Dyer
4 days ago
2 min read

Welcome to the second post in our A–Z of Neurodivergence series!

Today we’re talking about something many neurodivergent people experience but isn’t always understood: burnout.

What is burnout for neurodivergent people?

Burnout is more than feeling tired or stressed. For autistic people, ADHDers, and others with neurodivergent profiles, burnout often means physical, emotional, and cognitive exhaustion that can make everyday tasks feel impossible.

It can look like:

✅ Extreme fatigue

✅ Increased sensory sensitivity

✅ Difficulty with executive function (planning, organising, decision-making)

✅ Feeling withdrawn or overwhelmed

Why does it happen?

Neurodivergent burnout often builds up over time due to:

Sensory overload – constant noise, bright lights, or busy environments
Emotional strain – masking, social pressure, or feeling misunderstood
Executive function challenges – juggling tasks without enough support
Lack of recovery time – pushing through without breaks

This is different from general stress because it’s often linked to long-term coping in environments that aren’t designed for neurodivergent needs.

How to prevent and recover from burnout

For neurodivergent individuals:

Pace yourself – schedule downtime as a priority, not a luxury
Practice self-compassion – remind yourself that rest is necessary, not lazy
Know your signs – notice early warning signals like irritability or shutdown
Create sensory-friendly spaces – quiet zones, dim lighting, or noise-cancelling headphones

For parents and carers:

Watch for changes – withdrawal, meltdowns, or loss of skills can signal burnout
Reduce demands – allow extra time for transitions and rest
Offer choices – give children control where possible to reduce stress
Model calm – create predictable routines and safe spaces