Purpose 🎯

Help clients and caregivers recognize overwhelm and establish a supportive recovery plan.

Let’s Talk About It 🗣️

Identify:

Early Signs

• Increased sensory sensitivity
• Reduced speech
• Irritability
• Repetitive behavior increasing
• Difficulty making decisions
• Withdrawal

During Overwhelm

• Reduce unnecessary demands
• Lower sensory input
• Use preferred communication methods
• Prioritize safety
• Avoid escalating verbal demands

Recovery

• Quiet space
• Hydration/food when appropriate
• Rest
• Reduced demands
• Time before discussing the event

Ask:

• What helps you recover without feeling pressured to “get back to normal” immediately?
• What should others avoid doing when you are overwhelmed?
• What support feels respectful during recovery?

If the Conversation Gets Stuck 💡

• What usually happens before shutdown or meltdown?
• What makes recovery take longer?
• What would a supportive recovery environment include?

Telehealth / Whiteboard Version ⚖️

Create a three-part plan labeled Early Signs, During Overwhelm, and Recovery. Add caregiver or support-person responses when appropriate.

Why This Works 🌱

A recovery plan reduces confusion during distress and helps clients and caregivers respond with predictability, safety, and compassion.

Clinical Pearl 🧠

Processing the event too soon can increase distress. Recovery often requires reduced demands and time before reflection or problem-solving.

Documentation Language 📝

Therapist utilized a shutdown and meltdown recovery planning intervention to help client identify early warning signs, supportive responses during overwhelm, and recovery strategies.

Clinical Focus: Overwhelm Recovery, Safety Planning, Caregiver Support