Panic attacks and autistic meltdowns share some common symptoms but happen for different reasons. A panic attack is a short circuit in the nervous system and not a total sensory overload, while an autistic meltdown isn't out of nowhere — it's a total nervous system overload based on external triggers. If you are AuDHD and have panic attacks, being able to tell the difference between these two experiences is important because they need different responses. I talk about how to respond to both in this episode. If you want to learn how to handle panic attacks so that they no longer control your life, I'm teaching a three-session webinar in January 2026 about how to R.I.D.E. out panic attacks. Get on the waitlist so that you'll get the first chance to sign up at a huge discount. https://www.jenkirkman.com/waitlist/ SHOW NOTES Click to Get Jen's Free Guide How To R.I.D.E Out Panic Attacks Get on the Waitlist For Jen's How To R.I.D.E. Out Panic Course Jen's Monthly Action Club Just $19.99 You Are A Lot Podcast On Patreon 7 Day Free Trial You Are A Lot Podcast Website Jen's Every 10 Day Newsletter: "This Is A Lot" Follow Jen's ADHD/AuDHD Tips on Pinterest 30 FREE DAYS to BRAIN FM Wire Your Brain For Focus! Hope & Help For Your Nerves by Dr. Claire Weekes 20% off this book Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com SOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE: Coping With Panic Attacks Rula: Treating Anxiety Disorders Rula: Autism/Overstimulation Inertia, Meltdown, Autism - NIH Reduce Sensory Overstimulation - Science Direct Emotional Flashback Management - Pete Walker Hope & Help For Your Nerves by Dr. Claire Weekes

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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