What is a shutdown?
A shutdown is when a person becomes quiet, withdrawn or unable to respond due to overwhelm. Instead of exploding outward, the distress goes inward.
What it can look like
- Not speaking
- Looking blank
- Freezing or hiding
- Refusing to move
- Curling up
- Avoiding interaction
- Becoming very still
- Appearing tired
- Being unable to answer questions
Shutdowns are often misunderstood as rudeness, stubbornness or ignoring. They are usually a sign the person is overwhelmed and needs reduced demands.
How to support
- Reduce talking
- Give space
- Offer a quiet place
- Use written or visual choices
- Avoid pressuring them to speak
- Allow extra processing time
- Stay nearby calmly if wanted
- Keep demands low
- Offer comfort objects
- Wait
Do not force conversation. Communication may return once the nervous system feels safer.