@actuallyautistic #actuallyautistic #actuallyaudhd #relationships
I think most often I'm overstimulated not just from sensory stimulation but emotional overload...
I truly wish this was managed, but so far, although it's slower and less frequent, I can attempt to minimize demands by reducing who might have access. In the height of distress, it might feel like I'll always want it to be no access, but when I'm safe, not experiencing cptsd, I feel regretful and want to open myself back up. This can appear fickle, or hard to read. If I could simply display my depleting energy levels without having to explain, I wonder if it would save relationships.
AI summary but reflects something I've noticed, experienced and also done....
When someone with autism "cuts people off," it usually means they abruptly withdraw from social interaction due to feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or sensory overloaded, often as a coping mechanism to manage the intense stimulation they might be experiencing in a social situation; this can manifest as suddenly changing the topic, leaving a conversation, or physically distancing themselves from others.
Key points about autism and cutting people off:
Sensory overload:
Autistic individuals can be highly sensitive to sensory input like noise, light, or even social cues, which can lead to feeling overwhelmed and needing to retreat.
Difficulty with social cues:
Interpreting non-verbal cues like facial expressions or body language can be challenging for people with autism, making it hard to gauge when a social interaction is becoming too much.
Social anxiety:
The stress of navigating social situations can cause anxiety, leading to a desire to disengage when feeling uncomfortable.
Shutdowns:
A "shutdown" is a more extreme form of withdrawal where an autistic person may become quiet, withdrawn, and unable to communicate effectively due to overwhelming sensory input.
How to understand and support someone with autism who cuts people off:
Recognize the signs:
Pay attention to potential triggers like changes in body language, fidgeting, or verbal cues that indicate they are becoming overwhelmed.
Give space:
If someone with autism seems to be withdrawing, respect their need for space and time to decompress.
Open communication:
Discuss their needs openly and let them know it's okay to communicate when they need a break.
Create a supportive environment:
Minimize sensory overload by providing quiet spaces, adjusting lighting, and being mindful of noise levels.
Seek professional help:
If social interactions are significantly impacting their daily life, consider consulting a therapist or autism specialist who can provide strategies for managing sensory overload and social anxieties.