Most Autistic people have an understanding about what Autistic Burnout is, and that is because most have experienced it to one degree or another. There are still, however, too many professionals, including health professionals working with and supporting Autistic children or adults, who have a poor understanding or none whatsoever, with too many saying that they do not believe it is real. Autistic Burnout is real and can be a devastating, life changing experience, impacting Autistic, AuDHD and PDA children, young people and adults.

 

In this book, Viv Dawes looks at the experience through a nervous system and trauma informed lens, outlining not only what Autistic Burnout is, but the common physical, psychological and emotional experiences, the main causes and also what is meant by a recovery journey. Viv also helps health and other professionals reading this essential resource, to understand the needs of Autistic and other neurodivergent people and how to start to create safer environments. Viv highlights the fact that changing environments is crucial in helping to meet the needs of Autistic and other neurodivergent people, rather than seeking to change individuals themselves.

 

Viv Dawes, who is late identified and diagnosed AuDHD (and also identifies as PDA), has worked with neurodivergent people for over 30 years. She has worked with young homeless people, was an NHS Senior Practitioner within the criminal justice system and also managed an addiction recovery programme. Viv is also the parent of a young neurodivergent adult and has experienced Autistic Burnout herself. As well as being an author of several other books and guides for individuals, parents and first responders, she is also a consultant and trainer, supporting neurodivergent individuals, parents whose children are experiencing burnout and running accredited CPD courses on Autistic Burnout for professionals who work with Autistic (and other neurodivergent) children and adults.

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​'Viv’s book will be practice-changing for healthcare professionals. They carefully build the foundations for understanding Autistic burnout and then go on to explore the complexity and layered experiences of the people who live it. Viv challenges stereotypes and misconceptions, bringing lived experience into conversation with research in a way that reflects the realities of Autistic lives. This is not a simplified or one-dimensional account, but one that makes space for the nuances and individual experiences that are so often overlooked. An essential read for healthcare professionals who want to deepen their understanding, reflect on their practice and offer support that better recognises the people behind the experiences.’

Laura Hellfeld, Neurodivergent Nurse Consulting RN, MSN, PHN, CNL.

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'Clear and practical guidance, informed by Autistic people themselves, is essential to avoid the ongoing damage done by misinformation and under-education. For too long, learning and guidance for healthcare professionals has been missing the voice of those with direct experience of what it means to be Autistic – but particularly in relation to the experience of Autistic Burnout.

This book is unique in addressing that. To the best of my knowledge there are currently no other comparable publications. There is, however, an enormous body of anecdotal evidence, that demonstrates an urgent need across the NHS, for a new approach to learning how to better support Autistic people'.

Cat Obbard, Registered Mental Health Nurse.