Burnout can hit hard for late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD adults, especially when the energy cost of masking becomes too much to bear. Dropping the mask and stepping into authenticity brings both relief and upheaval, raising new challenges that aren’t always easy to navigate alone.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the intricate relationship between masking, unmasking, and Autistic burnout. They use vivid metaphors and real-life examples to depict how masking acts as a bridge to burnout city, discuss the destabilizing yet liberating process of unmasking, and share personal stories of re-discovering their bodies, needs, and boundaries after years of suppressing them. They also offer practical suggestions for finding moments of authentic self-expression, especially when safety and acceptance aren't always possible.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Gain a clear, relatable understanding of how masking—often invisible to even ourselves—contributes to burnout and why unmasking can feel disorienting but ultimately healing.
2. Hear honest stories from Patrick and Megan Anna about the messy realities and sometimes victories of post-discovery life, including changes in relationships, energy management, and self-acceptance.
3. Learn small, actionable strategies for unmasking safely, rebuilding trust in your body, and advocating for your needs, even if it’s just a few minutes each day.

If you’ve been struggling with burnout or questioning why life feels harder after discovering you’re Autistic or ADHD, this episode offers validation, insight, and gentle guidance through the journey.

Resources

• Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Masking Workbook: neurodivergentinsights.com/autistic-masking
• Neurodivergent Insights Resource on Autistic Burnout: neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources
• The Autistic Burnout Workbook by Dr. Megan Anna Neff: simonandschuster.com/books/The-Autistic-Burnout-Workbook/Megan-Anna-Neff/9781507223062
• Check out Neurodivergent Insights’ Library of Boundary Scripts (free resource)

Divergent Conversations Podcast Episodes:

• Episode 2: Autistic Burnout (divergentpod.com/2)
• Episode 47: Autistic Burnout (Part 2): A Deep Dive Into The Diversity of Burnout (divergentpod.com/47)

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Autistic burnout can feel like you’re running on empty: emotionally, physically, or both. Managing energy, burnout, and self-acceptance in a neurotypical world can be exhausting, especially for neurodivergent people navigating chronic fatigue, sensory overload, and internalized expectations.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the lived experience of burnout, depleted energy, and the ongoing struggle to honor personal limits. Through honest dialogue, they dig deep into pacing systems like spoon theory, the boom-and-bust recovery cycle, and the strategies (and grief) involved in energy management for neurodivergent folks. They also share laughter, relatable moments, and useful frameworks for understanding and advocating for your energy needs.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Gain a practical understanding of energy pacing systems: including spoon theory and chronic illness frameworks, and hear how these concepts can help you manage your day-to-day life.
2. Learn why naming and honoring your energy limits is inseparable from self-compassion, grief work, and dismantling internalized ableism, with candid stories straight from Patrick and Megan Anna’s lived experiences.
3. Discover actionable strategies for mapping your energy rhythms, advocating for your needs, and building routines that recognize both what drains and what restores you—so you can move toward a more sustainable life.

If you’ve ever struggled with burnout, chronic fatigue, or simply wished for more permission to rest, remember that honoring your energy needs is not weakness—it’s a vital act of self-respect.

Resources

• Spoon Theory for Neurodivergent Adults: neurodivergentinsights.com/spoon-theory
• Neurodivergent Insights Resource on Autistic Burnout: neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources
• The Autistic Burnout Workbook by Dr. Megan Anna Neff: simonandschuster.com/books/The-Autistic-Burnout-Workbook/Megan-Anna-Neff/9781507223062
• Check out Neurodivergent Insights’ Library of Boundary Scripts (free resource): neurodivergentinsights.notion.site/Boundary-Statements-17da17a4bb8b80c9a45dc8ff9c651725
• Relaxation Scripts: students.dartmouth.edu/wellness-center/wellness-mindfulness/mindfulness-meditation/guided-recordings
• Muscle Relaxation: students.dartmouth.edu/wellness-center/wellness-mindfulness/mindfulness-meditation/guided-recordings/progressive-muscle-relaxation

Sensory Checklists:

• Sensory Preferences:

Burnout can feel relentless for Autistic people, especially when our bodies and minds seem to react more intensely to stress than those around us. Understanding how our nervous systems work—and why we may struggle with regulation—can transform self-blame into self-compassion and change the way we approach mental health, relationships, and daily life.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the neurodivergent nervous system as they continue their burnout series. They candidly discuss the science behind nervous system regulation, heart rate variability, and why trauma, sensory sensitivity, or even daily disruptions can have a bigger impact for neurodivergent folks. Drawing from both research and personal experience, Patrick and Megan Anna explore concepts like self-compassion, co-regulation, and practical interventions (including nervous system “mapping,” movement, and completing the stress cycle).

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Learn the physiology behind neurodivergent nervous systems—including why stress responses can feel so overwhelming, and how understanding the difference between a character flaw and neurology can lead to greater self-acceptance.
2. Gain practical tools and self-reflection ideas for mapping your own nervous system responses, recognizing triggers, and building a personalized toolkit for self-regulation and burnout resilience.
3. Hear compassionate, real-world stories from both hosts about managing stress, dealing with chronic pain, navigating trauma, and the ongoing process of building self-knowledge in support of mental health and well-being.

If you’ve ever felt frustrated or ashamed about how you react to stress—or just want to better understand the “why” behind nervous system dysregulation—this episode offers insight, validation, and strategies you can start using today.

Resources

• Neurodivergent Insights Resource on Autistic Burnout: neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources
• The Autistic Burnout Workbook by Dr. Megan Anna Neff: simonandschuster.com/books/The-Autistic-Burnout-Workbook/Megan-Anna-Neff/9781507223062
• Check out Neurodivergent Insights’ Library of Boundary Scripts (free resource): neurodivergentinsights.notion.site/Boundary-Statements-17da17a4bb8b80c9a45dc8ff9c651725
• Relaxation Scripts: students.dartmouth.edu/wellness-center/wellness-mindfulness/mindfulness-meditation/guided-recordings
• Muscle Relaxation: students.dartmouth.edu/wellness-center/wellness-mindfulness/mindfulness-meditation/guided-recordings/progressive-muscle-relaxation

Sensory Checklists:

• Sensory Preferences:

Burnout isn’t just about exhaustion—it’s a sensory experience that can leave neurodivergent people feeling stretched to the breaking point. When every sound, smell, or texture feels overwhelming, how do we navigate recovery and build resilience in a world that rarely slows down?

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the connection between sensory processing and autistic burnout. They share candid reflections on their personal burnout cycles, explore how sensory overwhelm shapes emotional and cognitive well-being, and highlight the critical need for understanding individual sensory profiles. This conversation unpacks the realities of living through burnout—including the constant to-do lists, the elusive pursuit of “just right” sensory environments, and the importance of community support—while providing practical strategies for recovery and prevention.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Discover how sensory overload and sensory needs play a major role in burnout for Autistic and ADHD people, and pick up strategies for managing sensory overwhelm even when "rest" isn’t an option.
2. Hear honest, relatable insights from Patrick and Megan Anna about identifying sensory triggers, living with constant overwhelm, and unlearning narratives around "not being content"—plus the validating realization that everyone’s sensory profile and needs are truly unique.
3. Get practical tools to help you map your own sensory landscape, communicate your needs, and take actionable steps toward burnout recovery and prevention—grounded in real-life experiences and evidence-based wisdom.

If you’re feeling stretched thin by sensory and emotional demands, this episode is designed to help you understand why and start reclaiming what makes you feel safe, soothed, and genuinely well.

Resources

• Neurodivergent Insights Resource on Autistic Burnout: neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources
• The Autistic Burnout Workbook by Dr. Megan Anna Neff: simonandschuster.com/books/The-Autistic-Burnout-Workbook/Megan-Anna-Neff/9781507223062
• Check out Neurodivergent Insights’ Library of Boundary Scripts (free resource): neurodivergentinsights.notion.site/Boundary-Statements-17da17a4bb8b80c9a45dc8ff9c651725

Sensory Checklists:

• Sensory Preferences: neurodivergentinsights.com/sensory-preferences-the-complete-checklist
• Sensory Soothers: neurodivergentinsights.com/sensory-calming-techniques
• Sensory Triggers: neurodivergentinsights.com/understanding-and-managing-sensory-overload

Divergent Conversations Podcast Episodes:

• Episode 2: Autistic Burnout (

Navigating Autistic burnout can feel overwhelming, especially when recovery advice is often oversimplified or disconnected from the realities of daily life. For many Autistic people, finding real, sustainable strategies to move through burnout isn’t just about willpower; it’s about understanding our needs, honoring our limits, and reclaiming a sense of agency.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the full spectrum of Autistic burnout recovery. They openly explore both the practical strategies and deeper psychological work needed to move forward, balancing tangible tools (like strategic withdrawal, boundary scripts, and sensory supports) with the difficult realities of internalized ableism, grief, and navigating a world that often doesn’t accommodate Autistic needs. Drawing from personal experiences, professional insights, and their own journeys of self-awareness, Patrick and Megan Anna provide a nuanced, relatable conversation for anyone experiencing or supporting someone through Autistic burnout.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Get accessible, concrete strategies for managing day-to-day demands, sensory overload, and boundary-setting while recovering from Autistic burnout—plus ideas for making these tools kinder and easier to use (like ready-to-go scripts for social withdrawal).
2. Hear an honest conversation about the emotional depth of burnout recovery—including attachment wounds, internalized ableism, and the importance of authentic engagement with self and community.
3. Enjoy creative and compassionate metaphors (“Burnout City” and “Monotropic Manor”), plus real talk on what actually helps, what doesn’t, and why quick fixes are rarely the answer for Autistic folks.

If you’re seeking nuanced and affirming guidance on recovering from Autistic burnout or want validation for just how hard it can be, this episode is for you. Get practical insights, a dose of humor, and community with people who truly get it.

Resources

• Neurodivergent Insights Resource on Autistic Burnout: neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources
• The Autistic Burnout Workbook by Dr. Megan Anna Neff: simonandschuster.com/books/The-Autistic-Burnout-Workbook/Megan-Anna-Neff/9781507223062
• Check out Neurodivergent Insights’ Library of Boundary Scripts (free resource): neurodivergentinsights.notion.site/Boundary-Statements-17da17a4bb8b80c9a45dc8ff9c651725

Divergent Conversations Podcast Episodes:

• Episode 2: Autistic Burnout (divergentpod.com/2)
• Episode 47: Autistic Burnout (Part 2): A Deep Dive Into The Diversity of Burnout (divergentpod.com/47)

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Living with perpetual Autistic burnout can feel like navigating a world that’s always just a little too overwhelming, exhausting, or out of sync. For neurodivergent people, teasing apart burnout from depression and understanding how chronic sensory and emotional overload shapes daily life is not just challenging but key for self-advocacy and well-being.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the lived experience of Autistic burnout. They share personal stories about perpetual exhaustion, reflect on the nuances that differentiate Autistic burnout from depression, and illustrate how life stressors, health challenges, and environmental demands converge to create what they jokingly call “perpetual sensory hell.” With humor and candor, they explore how burnout can signal deeper misalignment and the importance of understanding personal triggers, as well as highlight why these conversations matter so much for late-identified Autistic adults.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Gain clarity on the difference between Autistic burnout and depression through real-life examples and practical markers—vital for anyone navigating neurodivergent mental health.
2. Hear validating stories about sensory struggles, task exhaustion, and the havoc that chronic burnout can wreak, along with the role of major life changes, masking, and health conditions.
3. Pick up concrete advice for recognizing your own burnout triggers, interpreting external and internal signals, and beginning to build a more resilient, neurodivergent-affirming life.

If you’re navigating burnout or are curious about what “Autistic burnout” really means, this episode offers honest validation, practical wisdom, and a sense of solidarity. Discover how being seen and understood can be the first step out of perpetual burnout.

Resources

• Neurodivergent Insights Resource on Autistic Burnout: neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources

Divergent Conversations Podcast Episodes:

• Episode 2: Autistic Burnout (divergentpod.com/2)
• Episode 47: Autistic Burnout (Part 2): A Deep Dive Into The Diversity of Burnout (divergentpod.com/47)

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Navigating higher education as a neurodivergent student can often feel isolating and overwhelming in a system not designed for neurodivergent minds. For many, finding an affirming academic environment that truly recognizes and supports neurodivergent strengths, and not just challenges, can be life-changing.

In this episode, Patrick Casale, an AuDHD mental health professional, sits down with Dr. Adam Lalor, educational psychologist and Vice President for Neurodiversity Research and Innovation at Landmark College — the first college in the world designed solely for students with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, and executive function challenges. They explore what makes Landmark’s approach to neurodiversity-affirming education unique, discuss the limitations of traditional post-secondary institutions, and share tangible insights about fostering inclusive, supportive environments that honor neurodivergent culture and identity.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Gain a firsthand look inside Landmark College, a groundbreaking institution built for neurodivergent students, and learn practical ways higher education can shift toward inclusivity, including sensory accommodations and universal design.
2. Hear vulnerable, relatable stories from Patrick and Adam about the often-traumatic realities of navigating college as a neurodivergent person and how trauma-informed, affirming spaces can help restore the joy of learning.
3. Discover actionable advice for families, educators, and neurodivergent students on self-advocacy, accessing accommodations, and nurturing strengths—not just remediating deficits—in academic and personal growth.

If you or a loved one has struggled to fit into traditional education or wondered what truly affirming, neurodivergent-centered learning can look like, this episode will inspire and empower you to seek out or create spaces where neurodiverse minds can thrive. Gain insight, validation, and hope for a more inclusive academic future.

About Adam Lalor:

Adam R. Lalor, Ph.D. is an educational psychologist and Vice President for Neurodiversity Research and Innovation at Landmark College. His research focuses on the college success and transition of neurodivergent and disabled college students. Dr. Lalor is co-author of the book From Disability to Diversity: College Success for Students with Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder and co-editor of the forthcoming book The New Accessibility in Higher Education: Disrupting the System for an Inclusive Future, scheduled to be released this summer by Oxford University Press. He serves in leadership capacities within the Association on Higher Education and Disability, College Autism Network, Learning Disabilities Association of America, and National Center for Learning Disabilities.

LC Online’s Learning Differences and Neurodiversity (LDN) certificate is an online, postbaccalaureate professional development program for educators and professionals who work with students with ADHD, autism, learning disabilities such as dyslexia, or executive function challenges.

The program uniquely integrates current research findings with evidence-based practices, classroom strategies, and technologies. Courses offer graduate credit and the convenience of online learning, as well as the opportunity to interact with an engaged cohort through video conferences and discussions. Learn more here: landmark.edu/certificate

Learn more about Landmark College here: landmark.edu

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Navigating wellness advice as a neurodivergent person can often feel invalidating, overwhelming, or just plain inaccessible. So much of what’s recommended—from meal prep to journaling—assumes executive function, sensory profiles, or social fluency that simply aren’t universal. However, the right adaptations not only make wellness more achievable but also help us honor our genuine needs instead of internalizing shame or “shoulds.”

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, ask their audience and discuss the kinds of health and wellness advice that often fall flat for neurodivergent people, then share creative, compassionate alternatives that are more likely to work. Drawing on their clinical expertise and lived experience, they discuss executive functioning challenges, accessible food routines, setting up effective self-care practices, and the emotional impact of receiving (often unsolicited) advice. This collection-finale episode of the worn-down and worthy #NotYourNeurotypicalWellness series is a candid, practical, and validating deep dive into taking care of ourselves in ways that feel right, not just prescribed.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Learn specific, neurodivergent-friendly adaptations for wellness routines—like low-executive-function food prep, sensory-aware shopping tips, and realistic self-care strategies—that move far beyond generic advice.
2. Get honest insights as Patrick and Megan Anna explore the emotional realities of shame, independence, attachment, and accepting help, with stories that will feel familiar and validating to many listeners.
3. Discover actionable ways to create routines, boundaries, and community resources that fit your actual life, whether you’re navigating burnout, chronic illness, or just tired of toxic “positivity” culture.

If traditional wellness tips have ever left you feeling worn out or unseen, this episode is a resource for finding new ways to advocate for yourself, honor your needs, and reimagine what well-being looks like on your terms. Listen now for practical adaptations and heartening perspectives tailored for the neurodivergent community.

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