168. Navigating the Autistic Brain; A Complex Journey

In Episode 168 of the Not Your Average Autism Mom Podcast, host Shannon Urquiola takes listeners on a fascinating journey into the intricate world of the autistic brain. The episode begins by unraveling the consequences of overload – impaired processing, deteriorating levels of cognition, and the accumulation of stress chemicals that lead to physical pain and panic. Communication becomes a challenge, with language skills weakening, and attempts to reason often exacerbating the overwhelm. The heightened senses of autistic individuals add an extra layer to this complex experience. Shannon then introduces the concept of the brain as a circuit, illustrating the relationships between the brain stem, limbic system (emotion center), and frontal cortex (thinking center). The metaphorical racecar encounters a double whammy as poor filtering systems bombard the Limbic System with intense stimulation, while weak connections with the frontal cortex render thinking centers unable to control emotional floods. This dynamic often results in strong emotional reactions. The explanation of how these dynamics contribute to meltdowns, where processing, thinking, and problem-solving skills fall apart, provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by autistic individuals. She explores shutdown as a protective mechanism when the brain is overwhelmed. Gradual exposure to stress may lead to a shutdown, where one or more senses close down, and the individual becomes lethargic and unresponsive. Unfortunately, this defensive response is often misread as daydreaming or noncompliance, leading to increased prompting and potential meltdowns. Listeners are encouraged to embrace a deeper understanding of the autistic experience, recognizing that the challenges are rooted in brain-wiring rather than intentional behavior. 🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback not only supports the podcast but also creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection. Maybe you are feeling alone on your journey or maybe you are looking for other moms to connect with in a PRIVATE community who understand your day-to-day challenges, be sure that you check out ALL THE BENEFITS available for you when you BECOME Not Your Average Autism Mom. ⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com ⁠ Additional Resources: Are you registered for our FREE Webinar? Journey to Resilience; Navigating Autism Parenting REGISTER NOW ⁠⁠⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/webinar ⁠⁠⁠ Join Shannon as she uncovers (3) hidden truths you need along your journey. Additional Resources: ⁠⁠Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/NotYourAverageAutismMom2020 ⁠ If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠[email protected]⁠ ⁠Episode 96. Our Parenting Journey is Different⁠ ⁠Episode 74. You Cannot Fix All the Things All the Time⁠