ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s language, behavior, and communication. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, people with ASD may experience a wide range of symptoms. They may react differently to different sensory inputs, ranging from music volume to the tactile touch of objects or the feel of clothing. People with ASD are neurodivergent, which means they behave differently than neurotypical people. One such example is an “autism meltdown,” which is an emotional reaction to sensory overload.

 

What is an ‘autism meltdown’?

 

Autism meltdowns are uncontrollable reactions to overstimulating situations, feelings, or environments. When an individual with ASD is overwhelmed or overstimulated by a situation, they may experience extreme distress and lose control of their behavior for a short period. This can result in a fight, flight, or freeze response, making it difficult for the person to regulate their sensory processing and behavioral responses.

 

What’s the difference between tantrums and meltdowns?

 

If your child is having an autism meltdown, it may look like a normal “temper tantrum”. However, while they may appear similar, a meltdown is not the same as a temper tantrum and should not be treated as such.

 

There are three major distinctions between tantrums and meltdowns:

 

• Unlike tantrums, autism meltdowns are not age-related. Tantrums become less common as children develop communication and self-regulation skills, whereas autism meltdowns can occur at any age.
• Tantrums occur when a child desires something, and meltdowns occur when they are overwhelmed. Tantrums are usually goal-oriented, such as when a child wants something. Meltdowns are uncontrollable emotional and behavioral responses to environmental stimuli.
• Tantrums are brief, whereas meltdowns are more complicated. Tantrums usually start abruptly and end when the child gets what they want or exhausts themselves. Meltdowns frequently have a “rumbling stage” before they begin. Characterized by visible behavioral changes such as pacing, increased heart rate, cursing, or an increase in stimming.

 

Qualities of an Autism Meltdown

 

Autism meltdowns are distinguished by the following characteristics:

 

• Meltdowns can occur in adolescents, teens, and even adults on the spectrum, and they can happen even in people with high-functioning autism.
• Signs of distress precede meltdowns. Autism meltdowns typically begin with “rumblings,” which are outward signs of distress that can be either obvious or subtle.
• Rumblings may include or progress to “stims” or other signs of anxiety during meltdowns. Stims are self-calming techniques that people with ASD use to help regulate anxiety or sensory input.
• Meltdowns are genuine expressions of distress.

 

A meltdown typically occurs in three stages:

 

1. The build-up

Also known as the defensive and anxious stage. It typically consists of physical, verbal, and behavioral indicators. This is the best time to step in.

 

2. The meltdown/shutdown

This is the point at which behavior becomes explosive and uncontrollable. It’s pointless to try to reason at this point. The child’s and those around them’s safety is the top priority.

 

3. The recovery

Also known as tension release. Everyone involved will most likely be emotionally exhausted. It usually consists of withdrawing or sleeping. During the recovery period, avoid discussing the incident. Wait until you’ve had time to rest and relax.

 

How to prevent a meltdown?

 

Identifying your child’s triggers and signals is an important exercise.

 

A “trigger” is an event in the person’s environment that occurs before the meltdown. You can prevent a meltdown by removing the trigger or teaching your child coping skills so they can respond calmly rather than melting down.

 

Typical triggers include:

 

• Change in routine
• Being told to wait
• Uncomfortable clothing

 

A “signal” is a behavior that occurs before the onset of more serious behaviors. Recognizing your child’s signals will allow you to intervene before the situation escalates into a meltdown.

 

Some examples of common signals are:

 

• Whining and yelling
• Stomping feet and pacing
• Excessive breathing and flushed skin

 

What to do during a meltdown?

 

You can’t always avoid a meltdown. When a meltdown occurs, the following steps can be taken to help:

 

• Direct your child to a safe place.
• Give your child some space.
• Reduce sensory inputs.
• Keep your cool and wait.

 

What to do after a meltdown?

 

Once they’re calm, teach them coping strategies. This is about your child understanding what makes them feel at ease and calm in stressful situations. Coping strategies for difficult situations may include:

 

• Breathing exercises
• Muscle relaxation techniques
• Taking a break
• Listening to music
• Using sensory aids

 

Even when you aren’t present, these coping strategies will help them calm down — possibly before a meltdown.

 

How Nurture Pods can help your child reach his or her full potential?

 

Explore more helpful autism resources available from the Nurture Pods Center. You’ll also learn about Nurture Pods’ ABA therapy, an innovative model and creative approach that combines the best practices of behavior analysis to help your child progress in a safe, fun environment.

 

Contact us today to learn more and start your child’s journey.

 

Written by: Alex Liau
Published on 17 February 2023