Overfunctioning / Underfunctioning/OH-ver-FUNK-shun-ing / UN-der-FUNK-shun-ing/
Two common responses to stress: doing "too much" (taking on everything, over‑controlling) or "shutting down" (reduced capacity, withdrawal).
Andy says:
Like flooring the gas vs. stalling the engine—both signs the car needs a pit stop, not blame.
Detailed Explanation
Overfunctioning can look like hyper‑productivity, caretaking others, or perfectionism. Underfunctioning may mean reduced initiation, more rest, and opting out. People can swing between the two. Supports aim for co‑regulation, boundaries, and pacing.
Community Context
In ND spaces, these patterns often reflect energy, sensory, and executive load—not character. Shame fuels swings; structure stabilizes.
Quick Tips
- Name which mode you’re in; pick one stabilizer (rest, boundary, checklist)
- Cancel non‑essentials; ask for help
- Use energy budgeting to return to mid‑range
Do / Don't
- Do: reduce demands; build small wins
- Don't: moralize productivity or shutdowns
Scientific Context
Stress/arousal models explain shifts in capacity; regulation and environmental changes improve functioning.
Language Notes
Related: masking fatigue, burnout, shutdowns.
Related Terms
Autistic Burnout
A state of intense physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion experienced by autistic people.
Emotional Dysregulation
Difficulty adjusting the intensity and duration of emotions to match the situation, especially under stress.
Pacing
Balancing activity and rest to avoid overwhelm, burnout, or crashes.
Energy Budgeting
Planning activities around available energy using a structured, proactive plan.
Accommodations
Changes to the environment, tools, timing, or expectations that remove barriers so a person can participate on an equal basis.
Sources
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