Meltdowns and Autism By Kelly Jean Sullivan

 

<script async src="https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1763189992875486"

     crossorigin="anonymous"></script>

What are autism meltdowns like?

Meltdowns are similar to the fight response. When an autistic person is having a meltdown they often have increased levels of anxiety and distress which are often interpreted as frustration, a 'tantrum' or an aggressive panic attack.

<amp-auto-ads type="adsense"
        data-ad-client="ca-pub-1763189992875486">
</amp-auto-ads

What triggers autistic meltdowns?

• Sensory overload or understimulation. This is when a child is sensitive to sound, touch, taste, smell, visuals or movements.
• Changes in routine or dealing with an unexpected change. ...
• Anxiety or anxious feelings.
• Being unable to describe what they need or want
• What to do during a very loud, very public meltdown
  1. Be empathetic. Empathy means listening and acknowledging their struggle without judgment. ...
  2. Make them feel safe and loved. ...
  3. Eliminate punishments. ...
  4. Focus on your child, not staring bystanders. ...
  5. Break out your sensory toolkit. ...
  6. Teach them coping strategies once they're calm

<amp-auto-ads type="adsense"
        data-ad-client="ca-pub-1763189992875486">
</amp-auto-ads>