Lesson 2: AuDHD, Burnout and Intimacy

Chapter 3, Lesson 2: AuDHD, Burnout & Intimacy

• Understand AuDHD, when autism and ADHD show up together, and how the two can pull in opposite directions

• Learn the signs of autistic burnout and how it differs from depression or everyday stress

• Discover how partners can support recovery and lower the load during burnout

• Explore how sensory needs, routine, and energy levels shape sexual connection

• Learn ways to talk about intimacy openly so both partners feel safe and desired

Reflection/Journal Prompts:

1. Does your partner show signs of both autism and ADHD, like craving routine but also needing novelty? How does that tension show up between you?

2. Have you seen your partner go through a period of burnout? What did it look like, and what did they need most?

3. What responsibilities could you share or set aside to lighten your partner’s load when they’re running low?

4. Are there sensory preferences, like touch, sound, lighting, or timing, that affect how your partner experiences intimacy?

5. How comfortable are you both talking about sex and physical closeness? What would make that conversation feel safer?