It’s not an emotional outburst or behavior issue, it is a physiological occurrence that must run its course. And once it starts, there’s no going back for the person experiencing it. Meltdowns typically go one of two ways: explosion or implosion.
AUTISM MELTDOWN SIGNS FULL
There is also an increased tendency to flee from the situation in attempt to retreat into safety.Įarly signs are helpful to know, but the reality is, by the time we as responders are called to a scene, a meltdown will most likely be in full swing. This is very dangerous because a person experiencing a meltdown is no longer aware of their surroundings, and they may be unable to spot danger. The early signs of a meltdown may include stuttering or difficulty answering questions, loss of eye contact and the ability to focus, increased stimming, and eventually a complete shutdown of speech and communication. As an adult, meltdowns can also occur from sudden change, not getting understandable answers to a question or being caught off guard. My co-trainer, Austin, tells me that he has developed coping methods to deal with sensory overwhelm in public places (note: the sensory issues do not go away, he’s learned to manage them or have an exit strategy). Meltdowns occur most frequently in autistic children due to an overwhelming sensory environment. In fact, the situation can be even more complicated and dangerous when responding to a call involving an adult experiencing a meltdown, especially if they have become nonverbal in the midst of it, which is common. Yes, I talk about the differences between a meltdown and a tantrum – which is much needed information – but meltdowns are very real occurrences for adults on the spectrum as well.
Often when I begin one of my autism training classes for public safety professionals I have to quickly debunk the myth that autism is a “kid” thing.
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