Understanding Autistic Burnout: Insights from Dr. Megan Neff

Understanding Autistic Burnout: Insights from Dr. Megan Anna Neff

In the first part of a two-part interview, Dr. Megan Anna Neff discusses autistic burnout and its intersections with chronic pain and invisible illnesses. She shares her personal and professional journey, including the discovery of her own autism following her daughter's diagnosis. Dr. Neff elaborates on the signs and symptoms of autistic burnout, such as chronic exhaustion, increased sensory sensitivity, and loss of skills. The conversation also touches on the common misdiagnoses of autism with conditions like bipolar disorder and personality disorders, emphasizing the need for accurate assessments and awareness. Stay tuned for part two, where Dr. Neff provides self-help tips for living with an autistic brain and nervous system.

00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:23 Listener's Story: A Parent's Struggle
01:48 Meet Dr. Megan Anna Neff
03:41 Dr. Neff's Journey to Understanding Autism
15:54 The Concept of Autistic Burnout
20:06 Misdiagnosis and Functional Assessments
27:49 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview