What is a Meltdown?

A meltdown is an intense reaction to an overwhelming situation, common among autistic individuals. Unlike temper tantrums, which are often seen as behavioural outbursts, meltdowns occur when someone becomes so overwhelmed that they temporarily lose control of their behaviour.

This response can be verbal, such as shouting or crying, or physical, like kicking, biting, or lashing out.

Meltdowns are not "bad" behaviour. They are a response to extreme stress or sensory overload, where the individual cannot express their feelings in any other way. In some cases, an autistic person may also withdraw or refuse to interact as another way of coping with overwhelming situations.

What to Do During a Meltdown

When a meltdown occurs, it’s essential to remain calm and avoid judgment. Here are some steps you can take:

Give them time: It may take a while for the individual to recover from the sensory or emotional overload.

Create a safe space: If possible, find a quiet, comfortable area to help reduce stimuli. Turn off loud music, dim bright lights, and encourage others to give them space.

Calmly check in: Gently ask if they are okay, but be patient, as they might need more time to respond.

Anticipating a Meltdown

Many autistic individuals show signs of distress before a meltdown, known as the "rumble stage." These signs might include anxiety, repetitive questioning, pacing, or physical indicators like rocking. If you notice these signs, there may still be time to prevent a meltdown by:

Distraction and diversion: Engage the person in a calming activity, such as listening to music or using a fidget toy.

Removing triggers: Identify and eliminate potential causes of distress if possible.

Staying calm: Your calmness can help the individual manage their emotions better.

Identifying the Causes of Meltdowns

To better manage meltdowns, it’s crucial to understand what triggers them. Keeping a diary of what happens before, during, and after each meltdown can help identify patterns. Common triggers include sensory overload, changes in routine, anxiety, and communication difficulties.

Minimising Triggers: Sensory Considerations

Autistic individuals often experience sensory differences. They may be overly sensitive to certain stimuli, like loud noises or bright lights. To help minimise sensory triggers:

Create a low-arousal environment: Remove bright lights and reduce noise.

Use sensory aids: Consider using headphones, weighted blankets, or tinted glasses to help manage sensory input.

Changes in Routine

Routine is vital for many autistic individuals, and changes can cause significant distress. To manage these situations:

Prepare in advance: Use visual supports or social stories to explain any changes in routine.

Provide reassurance: Reinforce that other aspects of the routine remain unchanged and offer comforting activities to ease the transition.

Develop calming strategies: These might include a calming playlist, a stress ball, or a quiet activity like reading or walking.

Incorporate relaxation into the routine: Regular relaxation time can help reduce overall anxiety, making the individual better equipped to handle potential triggers.

Communication Difficulties

Difficulty in expressing needs or emotions can also lead to meltdowns. To support better communication:

Use visual supports:  Social stories, picture exchange communication systems (PECS), or written information can be helpful.

Modify verbal communication: Speak in short, clear sentences and use technology like tablets for easier communication.

Meltdowns are challenging for both the individual and their caregivers, but understanding the causes and learning how to manage them can make a significant difference. By anticipating triggers, creating supportive environments, and developing coping strategies, you can help your loved one navigate overwhelming situations with greater ease.

For more advice and support, connect with others in the We Talk Care community who share similar experiences. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.