Adults On The Autism Spectrum

@mamacita Good morning back to you! Over the years I have become more accepting of myself, and feel more comfortable in expressing what I am feeling, and not being such a "doormat". So in that respect, they have become worse to those who get to experience my true self. Funny that it makes me feel more powerful and true-to-myself, to be able to let people know that the stimulation [whatever it might be] is not in my comfort zone. Not sure if that is what you are asking.....
Ginger

monday morning here Mamacita I am in your future bearhugs cuddles and lubs u

@mamacita - that is an interesting question you posed for those on the autism spectrum in this discussion, whether your (or your loved one on the spectrum's) meltdowns/burnouts have gotten better or worse as you (or they) have gotten older, and why or why not?

Thought that @stephanieann @lizaa might be interested in this conversation, as well. Have you seen meltdowns and burnouts in your sons, and if so, have they changed over time?

as the hormone levels change and thyroid function also changes and you go into menopause your burnouts do get worse .I never use to burn out but I do and my meltdowns have gotten worse as I go into male menopause

I meant to add adrenal gland and exclude adrenal gland tumour the adrenal gland release too much adrenaline which leads to issues with blood pressure and light headedness and epinephrine hormone of the adrenal gland floods the amygdala in the brain and Hypercampus . this increases levels of anxieties and depression

We dealt with meltdowns throughout the years, but it was at it's most difficult when my son reached preteen years. About 8-11 yrs of age. He sees a pediatric specialist who deals with autism medication management, and felt that Prozac (fluoxetine) would be the best medication to work for him. And it did. We started and have stayed on the lowest dose, 10mg. There has been a dramatic change in his meltdowns, with absolutely no change in his personality, which is what we were hoping for. He's always a happy kid, so we didn't want to see it affect that part of him. He is now 14 yrs old, and has been going through puberty for the last 2 yrs. It has gone much smoother than we had anticipated, since this is usually a bumpy time for any kid, much less one on the spectrum. I am a big follower of Temple Grandin, and she has also said that her experience and others have benefitted most from low dose Prozac. But, everyone is different, and some may respond better to other medications or behavioral therapies.

@lizaa Isn't she an inspiration? I got to meet her in 1999 not long after she published "Thinking in Pictures". It helped me realize why I always had a special connection with my horses, and all animals, and years later, it helped me understand where I was on the spectrum.
Ginger

Ginger, Yes, she is awesome. I loved the HBO film "Temple Grandin" about her and with her help. I also like to watch her talks on "You Tube". She has been a huge help for us and our son!

Thank you, everyone, for your interesting and informative responses. Medication is important, in many cases. I took Prozac for quite a few years, myself. I am presently on Cymbalta, as it does double duty for Fibromyalgia.

My meltdowns and burnouts have become easier to recognize ahead of time. As an older adult, I am more accustomed to the signs of impending trouble. I am learning to pace myself better and to let go of things I cannot control.

Mindfulness helps me stay in the moment. And gratitude helps me get through the tough times.

Welcome to the table. We are so glad you are here!

Mamacita

@mamacita So good to see you here this morning! And though you have your blood family, let me wish you Happy Mother's Day from someone who looks up to you as a wise mother-figure.
Ginger