A Space for Us

If you’ve ever been told you’re “too sensitive,” “too much,” “overreacting,” or “don’t really want any help”—this is your place. The Hearth is a grounded, neurodivergent-centered space where we talk about what dysregulation really feels like, how we can care for ourselves, and how to make room for gentleness even in the aftermath of overwhelm.

No toxic positivity. No infantilization. No pity. Just practical tools, shared experience, and fierce validation.

Nothing you share in The Hearth will be repeated anywhere without your permission. It is a safe space to share support with each other, not a place to harvest your words. Reporters and researchers are not allowed (except those who also experience meltdowns and other forms of dysregulation, and they are required to approach in mutual support, not as reporters and researchers.)

Come Sit By the Fire

  • What are Autistic adult meltdowns? — You already know what they are, probably more than anyone. But it can be clarifying to read definitions and explanations laid out clearly, in words that help you recognize yourself.
  • Before, during, and after: Recognizing and navigating meltdowns — A grounded guide for Autistic adults: how to recognize the early signs of a meltdown, how to care for yourself during one, and how to recover in the aftermath. Practical tools, sensory strategies, boundary-setting tips, and gentle insight.
  • What meltdowns feel like (from the inside) — You don’t need to justify yourself here. But if you’ve ever struggled to put the experience into words, this collection might help you make sense of it—or give you language that helps you explain your own experiences.
  • How to ask for support (without needing to educate everyone) — Templates, scripts, and cards you can share to let others know how to help you your way—without having to explain everything while overwhelmed.
  • Self-support after a meltdown — Not to “bounce back,” but to recover on your own timeline. What does that actually look like?
  • Hearth Support Groups — Join a Neurodivergent-led peer group (free and low-cost options available). We meet in large and small groups to talk about life, share our ups and downs, and remind each other that we deserve support and understanding. To access the Zoom support groups, join the Hearth Discord.
  • Join the Hearth Discord – For asynchronous connection between support group meetings. A place for shared resources, games, memes, support group reminders, and community.

Other Places to Explore

Information for everyone in the Adult Autistic Meltdowns 101 section.

You can find words to share with people in your life in the How to Support Us section.