To those of you with a smaller battery - how do you feel about it?

[AuroraBorealis]

To those of you who feel like they have a smaller battery (figuratively) than others: Does that frustrate you? What do you think/how do you feel about that? Do you just accept it, or does it make you angry or sad? Do you see anything positive about that?

I don't mean just social capacity. I mean generally. Since I can remember, I feel like I have always had a smaller battery that would affect me particularly when it included other people, but I also noticed it when it was just me.

Family holidays, school trips, summer camps, internships, work, etc. - at a certain point, I'd get exhausted, irritable, but also start feeling sick physically and would NEED a certain amount of time by myself with no program or socialising. I notice this also now that I work, even though it's part-time now. I get sick more often than others, with often unspecified symptoms that knock me out for a few days. It's usually some nausea, maybe a sore throat, some dizziness, and especially an intense desire to spend a (few) day(s) with no external tasks and by myself. The symptoms disappear shortly after I gave in and took some time off. It's like every few weeks, my body and mind say "okay, need a break now whether you like it or not", which I can't ignore.

Others often say to "push through", but as long as I can remember, that didn't work for me because at some (early) point, my body would start developing symptoms that made me feel as though I was sick, and if I'd ignore them, I'd feel as though I'd pass out, or start crying violently.

It would happen every time. An example when it didn't involve other people was when I worked on the dog farm for 2 months and had lots of alone time, peace and quiet. Still, after a few weeks, I got nauseated one day for no reason and felt the intense need to have a day off, otherwise I'd start crying and sort of melt down for no reason.

I struggle to not think of myself as weak because of it.

Do you experience this too? How does it make you feel?

 

[Mary Terry]

My battery is shrinking as I age. I just don't have the energy (or interest) to do a lot of things I used to do.

 

[Jumpinbare]

I live feeling like the Energizer Bunny with only 1 battery instead of the required 2. I keep going but with only half the energy.

 

[Masked Man]

Yeah I don't think I've ever had much of a battery. I have only ever been able to tolerate so much and I'm okay with it.

 

[Outdated]

To those of you who feel like they have a smaller battery (figuratively) than others:

I have never bothered comparing myself to others, that's a quick track to a sad life.

I miss the drive and enthusiasm that I used to have and the energy that went with that.

 

[Rodafina]

I feel totally accepting of it. I don’t wish I was any different because I like how I am. Especially now that I understand my social and physical stamina better, I have adapted to what is normal for me and feel totally comfortable with that.

It just doesn’t matter what I perceive others can or will do because that’s not going to work for me. I don’t measure my own value by what other people are good at. I see my strengths. It’s okay with me that those don’t mirror those around me. I’m gonna stick to my slow pace, my daily naps, and my simple life. There is enough suffering that will come my way- I don’t need to go looking for it by constantly wearing myself out and tearing myself down.

 

[Neonatal RRT]

To those of you who feel like they have a smaller battery (figuratively) than others: Does that frustrate you? What do you think/how do you feel about that? Do you just accept it, or does it make you angry or sad? Do you see anything positive about that?

I don't mean just social capacity. I mean generally. Since I can remember, I feel like I have always had a smaller battery that would affect me particularly when it included other people, but I also noticed it when it was just me.

Family holidays, school trips, summer camps, internships, work, etc. - at a certain point, I'd get exhausted, irritable, but also start feeling sick physically and would NEED a certain amount of time by myself with no program or socialising. I notice this also now that I work, even though it's part-time now. I get sick more often than others, with often unspecified symptoms that knock me out for a few days. It's usually some nausea, maybe a sore throat, some dizziness, and especially an intense desire to spend a (few) day(s) with no external tasks and by myself. The symptoms disappear shortly after I gave in and took some time off. It's like every few weeks, my body and mind say "okay, need a break now whether you like it or not", which I can't ignore.

Others often say to "push through", but as long as I can remember, that didn't work for me because at some (early) point, my body would start developing symptoms that made me feel as though I was sick, and if I'd ignore them, I'd feel as though I'd pass out, or start crying violently.

It would happen every time. An example when it didn't involve other people was when I worked on the dog farm for 2 months and had lots of alone time, peace and quiet. Still, after a few weeks, I got nauseated one day for no reason and felt the intense need to have a day off, otherwise I'd start crying and sort of melt down for no reason.

I struggle to not think of myself as weak because of it.

Do you experience this too? How does it make you feel?

Well, truth be known, it's not that we have a "smaller battery" per se. It's more like we use more "electricity" than others and deplete the battery quicker.

Some studies have demonstrated that many autistics do not go through the normal process of "neural pruning" in early childhood and adolescence. This neural pruning process is basically a way to "clean up" and remove neural pathways/synaptic connections that are less used and create "electrical noise". Well, when this doesn't happen, you end up with roughly 87% (on average) more synaptic connections than that of the "normal" brain. The autistic brain is using a significantly higher amount of power, but much of it is "noise", and contributes to many of the sensory and processing issues we experience. It also means that our brain, from a metabolic perspective, is much more demanding of fuel (glucose), but also puts out much more metabolic wastes and can easily have excesses in oxidative metabolites (causing inflammation).

So, when I have said that we need to take care of our brains, I mean it quite literally. Quality food, good sleep, proper dietary supplements, being able to pace yourself throughout the day, etc.

 

[AuroraBorealis]

Well, truth be known, it's not that we have a "smaller battery" per se. It's more like we use more "electricity" than others and deplete the battery quicker.

Some studies have demonstrated that many autistics do not go through the normal process of "neural pruning" in early childhood and adolescence. This neural pruning process is basically a way to "clean up" and remove neural pathways/synaptic connections that are less used and create "electrical noise". Well, when this doesn't happen, you end up with roughly 87% (on average) more synaptic connections than that of the "normal" brain. The autistic brain is using a significantly higher amount of power, but much of it is "noise", and contributes to many of the sensory and processing issues we experience. It also means that our brain, from a metabolic perspective, is much more demanding of fuel (glucose), but also puts out much more metabolic wastes and can easily have excesses in oxidative metabolites (causing inflammation).

So, when I have said that we need to take care of our brains, I mean it quite literally. Quality food, good sleep, proper dietary supplements, being able to pace yourself throughout the day, etc.

That is super interesting. Do you have any studies on hand that support this (otherwise I'd look for it myself but often struggle to sort through large amounts of info so first I ask whether you have them)? I'd love to explain this to my patients and their parents but want first to have it backed up scientifically.

 

[Judge]

My battery is shrinking as I age. I just don't have the energy (or interest) to do a lot of things I used to do.

What she said.

 

[Neonatal RRT]

That is super interesting. Do you have any studies on hand that support this (otherwise I'd look for it myself but often struggle to sort through large amounts of info so first I ask whether you have them)? I'd love to explain this to my patients and their parents but want first to have it backed up scientifically.

AI Overview

In individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a key neurodevelopmental difference is a lack of or reduced synaptic pruning compared to typically developing individuals. This means that the brain retains more connections (synapses) between neurons than it normally would during development. These extra connections can lead to a surplus of synapses, potentially impacting how the brain processes information and contributing to some of the characteristics associated with autism.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

• Synaptic Pruning:
  During typical brain development, the brain creates an overabundance of synapses in early childhood. As the brain matures, it selectively eliminates unnecessary or weak connections, a process called synaptic pruning. This pruning helps refine the brain's circuitry and optimize its function.
  
  
• ASD and Pruning:
  Studies have shown that individuals with ASD often have a slower rate or reduced extent of synaptic pruning. This results in a higher density of synapses in certain brain regions compared to their typically developing peers.
  
  • Sensory Overload: The brain might struggle to filter out irrelevant sensory information, leading to hypersensitivity to stimuli like noise, light, or touch.
    
    
  • Social Difficulties: Weak connections between sensory areas and social regions of the brain, combined with a surplus of synapses, may hinder the ability to process social cues and engage in social interactions.
    
    
  • Potential for Enhanced Abilities: Some individuals with ASD may exhibit enhanced abilities in specific areas, potentially linked to the increased neural connections. For example, synesthesia, where senses are combined, is more common in individuals with autism.
    
• Underlying Mechanisms:
  Research suggests that the mTOR pathway, a signaling pathway involved in cell growth and metabolism, may play a role in the reduced synaptic pruning observed in ASD. Overactivity in the mTOR pathway has been linked to an excess of synapses and impaired synaptic pruning, according to Healthline.
  
  
• Future Directions:
  Understanding the mechanisms behind the lack of synaptic pruning in autism is crucial for developing targeted interventions and therapies. Research is exploring ways to modulate the pruning process and potentially improve outcomes for individuals with ASD.

 

[Neonatal RRT]

Just a few on the topic:

Children with Autism Have Extra Synapses in Brain

Study links impaired synaptic pruning to autism.

mTOR-related synaptic pathology causes autism spectrum disorder-associated functional hyperconnectivity - PMC

 

[Neonatal RRT]

AI Overview


Current research indicates a complex relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and brain metabolism, with findings suggesting both
increased metabolic demands in specific areas and underlying metabolic dysregulation.
Key areas of investigation include:

• Mitochondrial Dysfunction:
  • Mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells, play a vital role in generating energy, particularly crucial for the brain's high energy needs.
  • Evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction may be more prevalent in individuals with ASD compared to the general population.
  • Impaired mitochondrial function can lead to insufficient ATP production, affecting various neuronal processes crucial for brain development and function, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) | (.gov).
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction can also lead to increased oxidative stress, which can damage brain cells and contribute to atypical brain functioning observed in ASD.
• Glucose Metabolism:
  • The brain primarily uses glucose as its energy source.
  • Impairments in brain glucose metabolism, particularly in astrocytes, have been linked to the emergence of ASD symptoms.
  • Erratic fuel supply to the brain due to glucose inconsistencies can manifest as behaviors like aggression in autistic children.
  • Disturbed levels of glucose and glycogen in the brain can lead to various neurological symptoms, including seizures, cognitive difficulties, and impaired social interaction.
• Amino Acid Metabolism:
  • Differences in amino acid profiles have been observed in children with ASD, which can impact neurological function and behavior.
  • Alterations in amino acid metabolism can lead to neurotransmitter imbalances, oxidative stress, and disrupted energy production, affecting brain function.
• White Matter Hypermetabolism:
  • Studies have shown increased metabolic rates in white matter regions in individuals with ASD, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) | (.gov).
  • This heightened metabolic activity may reflect inefficient functional connectivity with compensatory hypermetabolism, a potential common feature of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Potential Implications and Future Directions:

• Understanding these metabolic mechanisms could help identify reliable biomarkers for early diagnosis and potential therapeutic interventions.
• Targeting these metabolic pathways with approaches like a ketogenic diet or intranasal insulin has shown some promise in preliminary studies, but more research is needed.
• Further investigation is needed to clarify whether mitochondrial dysfunction is a primary cause or a consequence of ASD.
• Defining subgroups of individuals with ASD based on their metabolic profiles could lead to more personalized treatments.

Important Note: While there is growing evidence linking metabolic dysfunction to ASD, it's essential to remember that ASD is a complex disorder with multiple contributing factors, and metabolic dysfunction is likely to be a contributing factor in a subset of individuals.

Some lecture slides:
Brain Glucose and Glycogen in Autism: Speech, Seizures, Sleep & Beyond.

 

[FayetheAspie]

I have phases where I relate to running out of energy easily, but I also have phases where the more I get out and do it seems to build my energy levels.

 

[Dagan]

My battery is weird. Mostly energizer bunny levels, but I can definitely crash out some. Reset. Recharge. Full go.

I fear writing this because the AI overlords will use me like that film, The Matrix. D'oh!

 

[AuroraBorealis]

I have phases where I relate to running out of energy easily, but I also have phases where the more I get out and do it seems to build my energy levels.

I relate to this. As I wrote in the past, my energy levels often feel like 100 - 0 - 100 - 0. When I am at an energy-high, then using that energy, going out, doing stuff seems to fuel more energy - until I run out and crash.

This thread though is more about long-term things. This need for rest and a break from any external demands doesn't seem to be connected to my energy cycles (or at least not in a way I notice).
I already had it in school, where I'd fake being sick for 1-2 days once every few weeks to get a much-needed break.

 

[Jonn]

To those of you who feel like they have a smaller battery (figuratively) than others: Does that frustrate you?

Absolutely. <sigh>

What do you think/how do you feel about that? Do you just accept it, or does it make you angry or sad? Do you see anything positive about that?

I try to remain stoic about "Life, the universe, and everything", but I ain't coming back.

The cruelty of life makes me sad.
If I open the (figurative) window, I see the misery...a suffering farm...
I avoid opening "The Window" all too often.
I have the mute button handy when watching TV.

Do I see anything positive?
I lament that I didn't refuse conception, so that might be an indication of my Weltanschauung.
But I do enjoy being supportive where I can be.
My K9 kids give me great pleasure.
I recommend that everyone have a pet if they can afford one and can properly look after them.

I used to see myself as an existential nihilist.
These days, I would say I am a nihilistic stoic.
Age might have something to do with that.

I don't mean just social capacity. I mean generally. Since I can remember, I feel like I have always had a smaller battery that would affect me particularly when it included other people, but I also noticed it when it was just me.

Would that include attention span?
AuuuuuDHD!

Family holidays, school trips, summer camps, internships, work, etc. - at a certain point, I'd get exhausted, irritable, but also start feeling sick physically and would NEED a certain amount of time by myself with no program or socialising.

Isn't that what we autistics usually need?

I notice this also now that I work, even though it's part-time now. I get sick more often than others, with often unspecified symptoms that knock me out for a few days. It's usually some nausea, maybe a sore throat, some dizziness, and especially an intense desire to spend a (few) day(s) with no external tasks and by myself. The symptoms disappear shortly after I gave in and took some time off. It's like every few weeks, my body and mind say "okay, need a break now whether you like it or not", which I can't ignore.

Interesting.

Others often say to "push through", but as long as I can remember, that didn't work for me because at some (early) point, my body would start developing symptoms that made me feel as though I was sick, and if I'd ignore them, I'd feel as though I'd pass out, or start crying violently.

NTs, you mean?
NTs should not speak for NDs.

It would happen every time. An example when it didn't involve other people was when I worked on the dog farm for 2 months and had lots of alone time, peace and quiet. Still, after a few weeks, I got nauseated one day for no reason and felt the intense need to have a day off, otherwise I'd start crying and sort of melt down for no reason.

We only have so many "spoons".

I struggle to not think of myself as weak because of it.

We have limitations.
Everyone does.

Do you experience this too?

Weak, no.
I don't think in those terms.

How does it make you feel?

Regarding our lot in life:
It makes me feel that the system is based on the "luck of the draw".
In the end, does it really matter?

 

[Neonatal RRT]

Regarding our lot in life:
It makes me feel that the system is based on the "luck of the draw".
In the end, does it really matter?

Agree.

No such thing as equity and equality. Nothing in this world is fair. Complaining serves no purpose. You play the cards dealt to you as best you know how.

@AuroraBorealis,
As far as how I feel about my autism and the "low battery", I don't really "feel" anything, per se. I simply adapt and try to overcome as best I can. For myself, it's learning about the mechanisms behind it, gaining some understanding, and then learning how best to live with it.

 

[Misery]

I often feel like I'm running on different batteries that are connected to different things.

Physical energy, I just dont seem to run out. I dont sit still well and must constantly move. There are times when I'll be in the middle of typing something on here, and I'll abruptly stop, get up, and pace around the basement 8 times before sitting back down and typing the rest. Or today, going up and down stairs over and over. It doesnt really matter how much I do this, I still need to move. I will say, this is useful for hiking and such. Less useful for when I need to wait for stuff.

Social energy, yikes. I think someone was supposed to stick a proper Duracell in there, but they forgot to put their glasses on first so what they actually did was stick a fossilized dog turd in there. I'm drained after 5 minutes of talking. I tell ya, this makes it hard to keep connections going.

That has the odd side effect of increasing the need to move as well. I get pretty erratic after having to deal with any sort of social event.

I forgot where I was going with any of this.

 

[AprilR]

I accepted it mostly but it is hard to explain to other people, since i am not open about my autism. I usually just say i am introverted.

 

[Ronald Zeeman]

My battery is pretty significant, needed to be always fighting up hill battles, sort of like BJJ fighter know how to fight from bottom and win. Basically at black belt level. Easy when Managers and supervisors are rarely at this level.