10: The Lowdown on Meltdowns

When you think of an autistic meltdown, you might picture a child in distress. But what happens when that child grows up? In this episode of Spectrum Savvy, host Kat breaks down what meltdowns, shutdowns, and burnout look like in autistic adulthood—how they differ from childhood presentations, why they’re so often misunderstood, and the toll society’s “just cope” expectations take on our mental and physical health.

From sensory overload to masking fatigue, we’ll explore the real causes of meltdowns in grown autistic people, the different ways they can manifest, and practical strategies for prevention and support. Whether you’re autistic yourself, a loved one, or an ally, this episode offers validation, understanding, and tools for creating environments where meltdowns are met with compassion instead of judgment.