Autistic Burnout. How can I survive?

What Is Autistic Burnout and How Can It Affect Eating Disorders?

What does autistic burnout feel like?

Imagine your brain is a phone that’s been on 1% battery all day… and someone keeps asking you to run apps you didn’t even open. That feels a little like autistic burnout. It’s not just being tired; it’s full-on, bone-deep exhaustion that affects your body, mind, and emotions.

Tasks that used to feel easy, like cooking, going to work, or even saying hi to a friend, suddenly feel IMPOSSIBLE. Your brain might be foggy, decisions feel like climbing Mount Everest, and your emotions are on a rollercoaster without a seatbelt. Sensory things like lights, noises, or touch can suddenly feel like attacks, and social interactions? Forget it.

Many people also feel a bit disconnected from themselves, like their “normal” coping skills have gone on holiday. Eating, sleeping, and basic self-care can slide down the priority list, which can make existing challenges.

Can autistic burnout trigger eating disorder relapse?

Yep totally. And it’s not because you “slipped up” or lacked willpower. When autistic burnout hits, life feels heavier, decisions are harder, and tasks like eating can feel like running a marathon in flip-flops.

Suddenly, sticking to meal plans or recovery routines feels impossible, sensory sensitivities around food might spike, and old coping habits (like restriction, bingeing, or over-exercising) can sneak back in as a way to regain control when everything else feels overwhelming.

The bright side? Knowing burnout is a trigger means you can plan for it, build supports, and give yourself grace, because relapse isn’t failure, it’s a signal that your system needs a break.

How can therapy help with autistic burnout and eating disorders?

A neuro-affirming therapist can help you spot burnout early, build flexible routines around meals, and create coping strategies that actually fit into your life. Therapy gives you a safe space to explore both your autism and your eating disorder without judgment, and maybe even laugh a little along the way. Or it can be a space for you to just unmask and remove all demands.

Is online therapy effective for autistic burnout and eating disorders?

Absolutely. Online therapy or telehealth psychology can reduce sensory stressors like noisy waiting rooms or travel, making support more accessible and comfortable. We offer online eating disorder psychology sessions for people across Australia, tailored to neurodiverse needs, so you can get care in a way that actually works for you.

At recoverED Clinic, we specialise in supporting people navigating mental health, with unique challenges along the way. Offering online-based psychology sessions, our neuro-affirming, inclusive and Health at Every Size approach focuses on practical strategies, compassionate care, and creating a safe space for recovery. We believe everyone deserves support that actually fits their life.