Best Practice

Strategies to prevent autistic burn-out in the classroom

Neurodiversity Inclusion SENCOs SEND
Autistic burn-out is a constant risk in the classroom. Joe Fautley, who is autistic himself, offers some top tips and strategies for how we can support and communicate effectively with autistic and neurodivergent learners who are experiencing burn-out
Burn-out: Everyday, children with autism will cope with an exhausting range of challenges including sensory discomfort, overwhelm, social challenges, executive dysfunction, exhaustion from masking, and social confusion - Adobe Stock

Autistic burn-out is extreme long-term exhaustion and overwhelm triggered over time, where the stress of coping with life’s demands exceeds the autistic person’s ability to cope.

They may lose the ability to carry out everyday tasks, lose skills they usually have, and experience increased sensory difficulties.

Every day, we have to manage sensory discomfort, overwhelm, social challenges, executive dysfunction, exhaustion from masking, and the social confusion that comes with being autistic. It is no wonder we are often exhausted.

Recovering from autistic burn-out requires rest, reducing demands, taking time out, prioritising self-care, setting boundaries, and seeking adjustments.

It is important not only to offer us support, but also to advocate for us. Having an awareness of the stigma and discrimination that we face in society is the key to providing good support and managing burn-out.

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