Podcast Episode

234 | autistic burnout: what parents need to know (part 1)

About this episode

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇this episode kicks off a three-part series on autistic burnout.dr. tay shares what she sees clinically when autistic kids are in burnout, why it can be so confusing for parents, and why traditional approaches to depression, behavior, or school refusal may not fully capture what is happening.this is a primer episode to help you understand what autistic burnout can look like, what makes it different, and why recovery often requires time, nervous system repair, reduced demands, and support for the whole family. you’ll hear about:what autistic burnout can look like in kidsthe three core features of autistic burnoutwhy burnout can overlap with anxiety, depression, PDA, and school refusalwhy “just getting out and doing things” may not help during burnouthow recovery often happens slowly and incrementallywhy your child is not trying to be difficult timestamps00:00 introducing the three-part autistic burnout series03:25 what this series aims to offer parents08:36 defining autistic burnout10:20 skill regression, sensory overwhelm, and deep exhaustion13:33 how autistic burnout can differ from depression17:27 intro to burnout phases and what recovery can look like21:47 recovery, lowering demands, and rebuilding capacity26:05 closing reassurance and episode wrap-up resources⚡️ EVOLVE the membership — ongoing education, monthly masterclasses, and weekly Q+A support for parents of autistic kids⚡️ explore dr. tay’s clinical services, parent resources, and support at drtaylorday.com⚡️ follow dr. tay on instagram @the.dr.tay for practical autism education, behind-the-scenes reflections, and parenting insights