What Actually Helps Me When I ‘Shut Down’

Dear Carly,

 

I hope that all are well at Team Axia.

 

I found this article helpful, in that it clearly describes ( to a neuro-typical ) person how it feels to “shut down” , and wondered if it was a possible for the Axia website at all?

 

I hope to attend the PDSG on Wednesday.
Kindest Regards

What Actually Helps Me When I ‘Shut Down’ as Someone on the Autism Spectrum

As someone on the autism spectrum, I can have a difficult time with executive functioning and making sure I get things done. I have trouble prioritizing. Sometimes, things build up so much I don’t just get overwhelmed — I begin to mentally shut down.

When I mentally shut down, I literally can’t think about the things I need to do. Imagine a power outlet being overloaded with plugs until it blows the circuit. That’s what happens to my brain. I’m so overwhelmed I stop thinking. It’s also why when I say that I’m “shutting down,” and people respond with “try prioritizing” or “just do one thing at a time,” it isn’t really helpful. I can appreciate they’re just doing their best to help. However, I’m not able to think let alone do something. My brain has no power to it, and no matter how many plugs you pull out, it’s not going to start working again until you flip the switch…