I recently watched the Netflix documentary “Athlete A” detailing the sexual and emotional abuse of suffered by hundreds of young gymnasts at the hands of USA Gymnastics’ doctor, Larry Nassar. As a former gymnast and late-Autistic diagnosed Autistic adult, this documentary disturbed me, but did not at all surprise me. This film is a much-watch as it vividly highlights how reputable institutions, therapies and organizations designed to help children and develop excellence, like USA Gymnastics, can systematically condition vulnerable youth to be chronically obedient, and to value perfectionism over personal and emotional wellness.

Autism itself isn’t stressful- it’s a neurological condition which impacts sensory perception and brain processing. However, for Autistics conforming to and tolerating “normal” conditions can not only be overwhelming but can cause lasting trauma. We have all heard of, or unfortunately experienced, the highly-stigmatized Autistic meltdowns. We usually hear about them from the perspectives of parents and teachers of Autistic children about just how difficult and disruptive they can be. But what about for Autistics?

Autistic burnout is the loss of self-motivation and control over our lives due to a combination of physical and emotional exhaustion, social pressures, and sensory overload. While anyone can suffer from burnout, neurodivergents are more at risk due to our sensory sensitivities, differing social needs and work preferences. While burnout is experienced differently by each individual autistic, the warning signs can be similar.

I made a collage of all the names, adjectives and disorders I have been labeled throughout my life while just trying to go to school, play and be a “normal” kid. Turns out I am actually Autistic. Knowing what I know now, I wish I could go back and give the childhood me a big hug. Here are the 5 Facts that could have changed my childhood, but are now changing my life positively now!