Episode 3: Reboot Required
Meltdowns, Burnout, and Everything Between
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we dive into the misunderstood world of autistic meltdowns, shutdowns, and burnout.
What do they actually feel like?
Why do they happen?
And why do so many autistics feel ashamed of something they can’t control?
We share our firsthand experiences and break down the neurological reality behind these intense responses. You'll learn how stress, sensory overload, and social pressure can push an autistic person to the brink—and how judgment only makes things worse.
Whether you're autistic, love someone who is, or just want to be a better ally, this episode is essential listening.
Because understanding isn’t optional—it’s life-changing.
Show Notes
https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/navigating-autism-meltdowns-in-adults
https://reframingautism.org.au/all-about-autistic-shutdown-guide-for-allies/
https://smalleststeps.ca/have-you-heard-about-the-spoon-theory/
Autism Guernsey. (2024, Feb 13). The Stress Bucket: A Visual Way to Understand and Manage Stress. Retrieved from autismguernsey.org: https://www.autismguernsey.org.gg/post/the-stress-bucket-a-visual-way-to-understand-and-manage-stress#:~:text=This%20metaphor%2C%20known%20as%20The,bucket%20fills%20up%20very%20quickly.
Jack, C. (2022, novermber 4). What is the "Spoons Theory" of Autism. Retrieved from psychologytoday.com: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/women-autism-spectrum-disorder/202211/what-is-the-spoons-theory-autism
National Autistic Society. (2022, March 1). Understanding Autistic Burnout. Retrieved from Autism.org.uk: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/autistic-burnout
National Autistic Society. (2025, APril 24). Meltdowns. Retrieved from Autism.org.uk: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/behaviour/meltdowns/all-audiences
Penot, J. L. (2025, Jan 7). Burnout, Inertia, Meltdown, and Shutdown Can Shape Autistic Lives. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-forgotten-women/202501/burnout-inertia-meltdown-and-shutdown-can-shape-autistic-lives
Credits
Executive Producer:
Keith Holloway
Co-Executive Producer:
Bridget Holloway
Hosts:
Keith and Bridget Holloway
Produced & Edited by:
Keith Holloway
Theme Music:
"Paradise Found"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Logo Design:
Nathan McConnell (Growing up Autie)
https://www.facebook.com/growingupautie
A Dispatch Central Production
© 2025
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Disclaimers
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis or treatment of autism or any related condition.
The views and experiences shared here are personal and may not reflect those of everyone on the autism spectrum. Autism is a broad and diverse spectrum, and each individual's journey is unique.
Some episodes may contain discussions of mental health, trauma, or other sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised.
We aim to create a respectful, inclusive space for autistic individuals, their families, professionals, and allies. If we ever get it wrong, we welcome thoughtful feedback.
This podcast may feature sponsored content or affiliate links, which will be disclosed during the episode.
