I have read about shutdowns and meltdowns. But I don’t actually get what that looks like in real time.
What I understand is that meltdowns is when someone loses control of their emotions.
Shutdowns are when someone loses the ability to perform certain functions, e.g. the ability to speak.
I was wondering if someone could give a more explicit example, of what that actually looks like?
I couldn’t tell you what they look like since I’m the one shutting or melting down, but I certainly know how it feels.
Shutdown is just detaching from the situation altogether. Totally non verbal; and not by choice. It’s like I physically can not speak and sometimes can’t even move.
Meltdown is the exact opposite. Emotions erupt, usually anger, frustration, fear or sadness. Think of a child throwing a tantrum, but it’s an adult trying their damnedest to be calm and civil but failing.