At the ADHD & Autism Clinic, we understand how challenging emotional outbursts—or blowups—can be for both children and their families. While these events may look similar from child to child, their causes can be very different. That’s why it’s important to not only manage the moment but also to investigate the root of the behavior. Here’s how our clinic approaches this complex issue.
Emotional Blowups: More Than Meets the Eye
Treating autism is not like treating a standard medical condition with a one-size-fits-all pill. Blowups are symptoms, but their causes—known as etiology—can range widely. That’s why it’s critical to dig deeper and understand the individual child.
We always remember a guiding principle from medical school: “Listen to the patient, and you’ll often find the diagnosis.” In autism, listening means analyzing behaviors, patterns, lifestyle factors, and caregiver reports.
Key Areas to Explore
To understand what’s driving a child’s emotional outbursts, we examine several factors:
- Sleep: Poor sleep can impact brain detoxification and emotional regulation. Children who don’t sleep well may be more prone to blowups.
- Diet: Foods with gluten, dairy, soy, red/yellow dyes, and preservatives can influence mood and behavior. We often recommend eliminating these to see if symptoms improve.
- Digestive Health: Constipation and gut imbalances, even parasites, can influence behavior—especially in non-verbal children who can’t communicate discomfort.
- Toxin Exposure: If a child is constipated or reabsorbing toxins, their behavior may reflect that internal imbalance.
- Parasitic Infections: We’re seeing an increasing number of children with parasites that can trigger symptoms, especially around full moons when parasitic activity peaks.
By carefully collecting history, using questionnaires, and listening to parents, we can often identify triggers and guide next steps.
Supportive Tools While You Investigate
While we work on identifying the root cause, there are supportive strategies and supplements that may help reduce symptoms:
- Natural Supplements: Saffron, phosphatidylserine, GABA, L-theanine, and magnesium can be helpful.
- Epsom Salt Baths with Baking Soda: These can assist in calming the nervous system.
- Essential Oils with Massage: Gentle sensory tools like lavender oil can help children relax.
These strategies are not meant to cure but to ease the burden while we investigate the underlying triggers.
What Can Parents Do in the Moment?
In the heat of a blowup, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are some in-the-moment strategies for parents:
- Stay Calm and Observant: While challenging, try to remain calm and take mental or physical notes about what happened leading up to the blowup.
- Provide a Quiet Space: Having a designated calming zone—like a small tent or cozy corner—can help your child regain control.
- Use Calming Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, guided sensory activities, or simply offering space can be powerful tools.
- Consistency is Key: Use the same calming techniques at home and school to help your child generalize coping skills.
The Power of a Team-Based Approach
Successful management of emotional blowups requires a collaborative effort. This often includes:
- Behavioral Therapists (like ABA)
- Speech and Occupational Therapists
- Educators trained in special needs
It’s essential for parents to communicate with these professionals, learn calming strategies, and implement them consistently. A child will benefit most when all the adults in their life are aligned and using the same language and techniques.
Final Thoughts
Emotional blowups in children with autism are complex but manageable. At the ADHD & Autism Clinic, we don’t treat symptoms in isolation—we look for patterns, history, and causes, and we guide families step-by-step through calming tools and clinical strategies.
By addressing both the moment and the root cause, families can make meaningful progress in supporting their child’s emotional regulation.
💡 Take the Next Step
If you’re a parent struggling with emotional outbursts at home, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Our clinic offers comprehensive autism evaluations, biomedical testing, and customized treatment plans designed to uncover the root causes behind behaviors like blowups.
👉 Schedule a Consultation Today to learn how we can support your child and your family.
🔗 Contact the ADHD & Autism Clinic at 252-301-3171
We’re here to listen, help, and walk with you every step of the way.