I may have been a little too optimistic about the LSD microdosing. Did it make me feel more energized? Yes. But did it heal my burnout? No. However, microdosing has lifted the dark clouds and it's given me enough energy to implement some new changes that have slowly been helping me.
Also - DISCLAIMER: I am an Autistic individual sharing my personal experiences and opinions. I am not a licensed doctor or healthcare professional. The information I provide is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and should is not professional medical advice.
Healing from burnout will look different for everyone. When first going through my burnout, there was not much information about how to best support myself through this situation. The information here is by no means extensive. If any readers have different experiences, please comment below. It would be great to start a conversation.
I realize that health professionals usually say that the focus should first be getting nutrition from food and only adding whatever is missing with supplements. But I did not have the energy to start cooking and eating well enough to have a well-rounded diet. In December, I added a number of supplements into my daily routine. In the hope this information is beneficial for anyone, I’ll detail the supplements that have been working for me below.
Omega-3s were the first supplements that came to mind. Omega-3s reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and enhance mood and cognitive function, which I was desperate to have again while healing from burnout. Additionally, research suggests that Omega-3s may play a role in managing hyperactivity, and impulsivity, and improving communication and social skills. Based on what Dr Rhonda Patrick says, it's best to aim to get at least 1,000 mg of EPA a day, but she has talked about taking up to 5,000mg of Omega-3s per day on Joe Rogan’s podcast. When I first started taking Omegas I had to take four large fish oil pills. The experience was not particularly pleasant, but luckily, I found these Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega 2X mini. They are small AND you only need to take 2 to get the right about of EPA. This is the link to the Omega 2X Minis —> https://amzn.to/40Klc0C
Probiotics are live microorganisms are similar to the beneficial bacteria found in the gut. They can help to improve gut health by rebalancing the gut microbiome. This, in turn, can help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the gut. Studies have shown that Autistic individuals often have altered gut microbiomes, with higher levels of certain bacteria associated with inflammation. Probiotic supplements have also been shown to be effective in managing symptoms of various digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and reducing the risk of certain infections, such as vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections. Additionally, studies have also suggested that probiotics may have potential benefits for mental health, such as reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. I took a lot of time trying to figure out which probiotics would be best for me. I have heard that refrigerated probiotics are better, but because I was travelling in December, I wanted a probiotic that didn’t require refrigeration, so I went with Jarro-Dopilus EPS Digestive Probiotic. I take one first thing in the morning and one after dinner. The link is here if anyone would like to take a look —> https://amzn.to/3DYfrCC
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being. It helps with the production of red blood cells, helps regulate the nervous system, and helps maintain cognitive function. Additionally, B12 can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, which I was suffering from during my burnout. After two months of incorporating a B12 supplement into my daily routine, I had slightly more energy and better mental clarity. As I am familiar with the Jarrow Formula supplements, I went with the Jarrow Formulas Methyl B-12. I take the chewable tablet in the morning with my smoothie. The link is here —> https://amzn.to/40EZ5IO
Wellness Formula was something that I relied on back when I was in college. The moment I felt that my immune system was flagging, I would immediately take 3 -6 of these daily. So, it made sense to start incorporating these into my daily routine. The Wellness Formula is a dietary supplement that contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and herbs specifically designed to support overall health and well-being. The vitamins and minerals in the Wellness Formula play a crucial role in maintaining good physical health. For example, vitamins such as Vitamin C and Vitamin D support immune function, while minerals such as magnesium and zinc help regulate the nervous system. Additionally, the B-complex vitamins in this formula can help improve mood and cognitive function. The herbs in the Wellness Formula also play an important role in supporting overall well-being. For example, ingredients like ginseng and echinacea are known for their immune-boosting properties, while ashwagandha and Rhodiola are used to manage symptoms of anxiety and stress. These herbs, along with the vitamins and minerals in the formula work together to support a sustainable holistic approach to health and wellness. The link is here if you would like to take a look —> https://amzn.to/3YENTKv
I initially found out about Theanine in my research for supplements that would help me fall asleep, but now I take one gummy in the morning and two at night. Theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves that have a calming and relaxing effect on the brain. Theanine increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that promote relaxation and reduce stress, while also enhancing the effects of GABA, which is a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the brain. Additionally, Theanine improves attention and focus, which was something that I was seriously lacking throughout the burnout. It may have been a placebo effect, but I honestly felt a sense of calm from the very first time I took it. I like these Theanine Gummies made by Jarrow Formulas (again), the link to them is here —> https://amzn.to/3Ifs7aH
I began adding Navitas Organics Superfood + Adaptogen Blend to my morning smoothies. This blend contains maca, reishi mushroom and ashwagandha. Maca is a root vegetable native to South America that has been used for centuries to improve energy, mood, and overall well-being. This adaptogenic herb can be particularly beneficial for Autistic individuals experiencing burnout, as it's been shown to help manage symptoms of stress and fatigue. Maca has been shown to improve the balance of hormones in the body, which can help regulate mood and energy levels. Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for their medicinal properties. Reishi mushrooms contain compounds that have a calming effect on the mind and body, helping to reduce stress and anxiety and contain compounds that are believed to improve brain function and enhance cognitive abilities (plus, I’m loving anything mushroom these days.) Ashwagandha is an ancient herb used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to promote physical and mental well-being. Ashwagandha is considered an adaptogenic herb, meaning it helps the body cope with stress and promotes overall balance. Some of its numerous health benefits include reducing stress and anxiety, improving brain function, boosting energy and endurance, supporting a healthy immune system, balancing hormones, and improving cardiovascular health. The link to the Navitas Organics Superfood + Adaptogen Blend —> https://amzn.to/3ls2f2C
And as I’ve mentioned in past posts, sleep has been an ongoing issue for me since I was 13. And I have been taking Xanax and Ambien to sleep for many years. But as I decided to try to get off many of the prescription medications I have been on, I knew that I find alternatives for sleep.
Sleep is a critical aspect of overall health and well-being. It is essential for reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting physical and mental restoration. Sleep can play a key role in reducing fatigue, irritability, and decreased motivation. When we sleep, our bodies can repair and recharge, helping us to feel refreshed and energized when we wake up. Additionally, sleep can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. So I have put together a nighttime stack that has gotten me off Ambien after relying on it for over ten years.
Now I take two theanine gummies before bed on an empty stomach. As I mentioned, Theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves and is a valuable tool for improving sleep quality and reducing symptoms of burnout in Autistic individuals. It has a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. As I mentioned above, I like the Theanine Gummies made by Jarrow Formulas the link is here —> https://amzn.to/3Ifs7aH
I was listening to Andrew Huberman’s podcast with Dr Rhonda Patrick, and she mentioned that she drinks Magnesium Om by Moon Juice in the evening to help her sleep. I decided to give it a go. I enjoy drinking it as a nighttime ritual and I didn’t have any negative GI symptoms which can happen with Magnesium capsules I've tried in the past. After a month of drinking Magnesium Om in the evening, it has elimiated my restless legs syndrom symptoms! Magnesium is essential for regulating several important bodily processes, including regulate melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep patterns. Additionally, magnesium has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. The link to the Magnesium Om made by Moon Juice —> https://amzn.to/3xcekLS
Lastly is GABA. GABA (gamma-Aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter that has a significant impact on sleep quality. This can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night, reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety. Additionally, GABA has calming effect on the nervous system, reducing feelings of nervousness and promoting relaxation. The GABA that I like to take is the Source Naturals GABA Calm orange flavour lozenges. The link is here —> https://amzn.to/40HzIq1
With this sleep stack, I have managed to get off Ambien completely. It does take a little longer to fall asleep, but I am still getting good-quality sleep. I used to fall asleep listening to podcasts, but now that I need to fall asleep naturally, I use the Headspace app at bedtime as they have calming bedtime stories and walk you through a breathing exercise to wind down.
A funny thing started happening after a few months of taking all these supplements. I’ve found myself cooking more healthy meals and having the energy and motivation to do so. It was like, as I was learning about the supplements, I found myself more motivated to make healthy choices and want to give my body the nutrients it needs to function optimally and the energy to cook.
Am I out of burnout yet? No, but the brain fog feels like it's slowly lifting, which after a year of feeling spacey, feels pretty great.
Currently Listening: Andrew Huberman’s podcast with Dr Rhonda Patrick and all past episodes of Joe Rogan’s podcast with Rhonda Patrick.
Currently Reading: No Bad Parts by Richard C. Schwartz, PhD
Quote: “Think in the morning. Act in the noon. Eat in the evening. Sleep in the night.” William Blake
Questions: What would it take to create a holistic healing centre for Autistics to go to when they burn out? A place that would take care of their mental and physical well-being and in the process teach the skills to back into everyday life once they recover.