Shutdowns are involuntary responses to being overwhelmed. Whereas meltdowns usually result in an external reaction (more of a "fight" response), shutdowns can be more internal (more of a "freeze" response) bjt one can lead to the other.
The reason for a shutdown or the way it presents itself isn't always the same for everyone.
Common shutdown triggers:
◇ High anxiety.
◇ Stress exceeding coping ability.
◇ Change in plan or routine.
◇ Exhaustion from masking.
◇ Unmet needs.
◇ Sensory overload.
◇ Social exhaustion.
◇ High emotions or overthinking.
◇ Tiredness.
◇ Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria.
◇ High demands.
◇ Feeling unable to meet expectations.
Some symptoms of a shutdown can be:
◇ Hiding somewhere dark or quiet.
◇ Not being able to move.
◇ Extreme tiredness.
◇ Complete loss of energy.
◇ Unresponsiveness.
◇ Not speaking.
◇ Staring blankly.
◇ Loss of outward emotion.
◇ Lack of coherent sentences.
◇ Lying down even if still awake.
◇ Withdrawing.
◇ Numbness.
For me, a shutdown usually comes when I've had a long day of socializing, being productive and busy, a lot of built-up overstimulation or stress, or just being out of the house for too long.
During a shutdown, I like to be in a dark and quiet room (preferably my bedroom), lying on my bed with my weighted blanket and/or comfort item. I either have my headphones in and listen to music, or have complete silence. I don't feel able to talk to anyone, and I sometimes get body shakes and/or cry a little out of frustration and exhaustion. I like to have my cats near me, and reading or writing usually helps (it's my special interest, and it calms me) but only if I have the energy and strength to hold my pen and paper.
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Let me know if this helps, or if anyone can relate! :)
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Just An Autistic Teenage Girl
Non-FictionI am a teenage girl, and I'm autistic. I wrote this book in the hopes that it could help another autistic girl (or boy) out there who needs it. :) This is basically just a book of random things about autism and what it's like for me, and also a teen...
