Shutdown Communication Guide Scripts
Shutdown Communication Script Guide — Printable.
By Flourish with Neurodiversity, in partnership with auDHD & Then Some.
A concise, practical, printable designed for ADHD, autistic, and AuDHD adults to use during sensory overload, emotional shutdown, or dissociation. This mini guide gives clear, pre-written communication scripts you can adapt and use when you need to explain your state, set boundaries, or ask for help without expending extra energy.
Who it’s for
Autistic, ADHD and auADHD adults who experience shutdowns and need simple, reliable ways to communicate.
Partners, friends, family members, and coworkers who want to respond respectfully when someone is shutting down.
Caregivers and clinicians who want a low-effort handout to share with clients.
What’s inside the printable
Ready-to-Use Scripts: Short, clear phrases you can read or send. Categorised by context:
Immediate needs (e.g., I need silence, I need to be alone)
Safety and support (e.g., I’m overwhelmed; please stay near but don’t touch)
Workplace and school (e.g., I need a break from tasks; I’ll return by X)
Social and family situations (e.g., I can’t talk right now; I’ll reach out later)
Medical and emergency (e.g., I’m not responding; please call my emergency contact)
Fill-in-the-Blank Templates: Short scripts you can personalise - so you can insert your preferred words, comfort items, time-frames, or contact names without composing from scratch.
Short Explanations for Recipients: One-line guidance cards for people receiving the script—how to respond, what not to do, and how to respect boundaries while offering care.
Quick Self-Check Prompts: A mini checklist to help you identify if you’re entering a shutdown and which script or action fits best.
Visual Priority Icons: Small, simple symbols you can circle to indicate urgency (non-urgent, needs presence, immediate help) for fast scanning by others.
Accessibility Notes: Suggestions for communicating via text, email, note, or voice message depending on sensory needs and device availability.
Two Layout Options: Printable single-column for readability and compact double-column for pocket or wallet carry.
Why this helps
Reduces cognitive load during distress by providing language ready to use.
Promotes clearer expectations between you and others, decreasing accidental escalation.
Supports autonomy: you choose the wording, level of detail, and who gets what information.
Practical in multiple settings—home, work, medical, or public spaces.
Format and delivery
High-contrast, readable font and clean layout optimised for printing.
One-page printable (letter size) plus an alternate compact layout you can fold and keep with you.
Use it to:
Quickly tell someone what you need with minimal effort.
Reduce guilt and miscommunication around needing space or assistance.
Give clear instructions to others so they can support you in ways that are actually helpful.
Note: This printable is a communication tool, not a replacement for medical or mental health advice. If you have safety concerns, contact local emergency services or your healthcare provider.
Who are we
Flourish with Neurodiversity works with neurodivergent adults or parents of neurodivergent children with overlapping conditions or dual/multiple neurotypes such as AuDHD or Tourettes Trio - ADHD and/or Autism and Tourettes and Sensory Processing Differences. Supporting businesses and organisations by providing specialist training & workshops about neurodivergence
Please note:
- All of our products are digital, so no physical product will be shipped.
- No returns or refunds.
- All sales are final.
If there is an issue with your purchase, please get in touch within three working days following your purchase and we will be happy to assist and look into a resolution for you.
Any questions, do not hesitate to get in touch. We'd be happy to hear from you!
Thank you for looking and happy shopping.
Flourish with Neurodiversity, in partnership with AuDHD & Then Some.
If your files do not download automatically,
How to Open ZIP Files:
Download the ZIP file, then right-click →
Extract All on Windows, or double-click on
Mac. Your PDFs will appear in a normal folder.
Shutdown Communication Script Guide — Printable.
By Flourish with Neurodiversity, in partnership with auDHD & Then Some.
A concise, practical, printable designed for ADHD, autistic, and AuDHD adults to use during sensory overload, emotional shutdown, or dissociation. This mini guide gives clear, pre-written communication scripts you can adapt and use when you need to explain your state, set boundaries, or ask for help without expending extra energy.
Who it’s for
Autistic, ADHD and auADHD adults who experience shutdowns and need simple, reliable ways to communicate.
Partners, friends, family members, and coworkers who want to respond respectfully when someone is shutting down.
Caregivers and clinicians who want a low-effort handout to share with clients.
What’s inside the printable
Ready-to-Use Scripts: Short, clear phrases you can read or send. Categorised by context:
Immediate needs (e.g., I need silence, I need to be alone)
Safety and support (e.g., I’m overwhelmed; please stay near but don’t touch)
Workplace and school (e.g., I need a break from tasks; I’ll return by X)
Social and family situations (e.g., I can’t talk right now; I’ll reach out later)
Medical and emergency (e.g., I’m not responding; please call my emergency contact)
Fill-in-the-Blank Templates: Short scripts you can personalise - so you can insert your preferred words, comfort items, time-frames, or contact names without composing from scratch.
Short Explanations for Recipients: One-line guidance cards for people receiving the script—how to respond, what not to do, and how to respect boundaries while offering care.
Quick Self-Check Prompts: A mini checklist to help you identify if you’re entering a shutdown and which script or action fits best.
Visual Priority Icons: Small, simple symbols you can circle to indicate urgency (non-urgent, needs presence, immediate help) for fast scanning by others.
Accessibility Notes: Suggestions for communicating via text, email, note, or voice message depending on sensory needs and device availability.
Two Layout Options: Printable single-column for readability and compact double-column for pocket or wallet carry.
Why this helps
Reduces cognitive load during distress by providing language ready to use.
Promotes clearer expectations between you and others, decreasing accidental escalation.
Supports autonomy: you choose the wording, level of detail, and who gets what information.
Practical in multiple settings—home, work, medical, or public spaces.
Format and delivery
High-contrast, readable font and clean layout optimised for printing.
One-page printable (letter size) plus an alternate compact layout you can fold and keep with you.
Use it to:
Quickly tell someone what you need with minimal effort.
Reduce guilt and miscommunication around needing space or assistance.
Give clear instructions to others so they can support you in ways that are actually helpful.
Note: This printable is a communication tool, not a replacement for medical or mental health advice. If you have safety concerns, contact local emergency services or your healthcare provider.
Who are we
Flourish with Neurodiversity works with neurodivergent adults or parents of neurodivergent children with overlapping conditions or dual/multiple neurotypes such as AuDHD or Tourettes Trio - ADHD and/or Autism and Tourettes and Sensory Processing Differences. Supporting businesses and organisations by providing specialist training & workshops about neurodivergence
Please note:
- All of our products are digital, so no physical product will be shipped.
- No returns or refunds.
- All sales are final.
If there is an issue with your purchase, please get in touch within three working days following your purchase and we will be happy to assist and look into a resolution for you.
Any questions, do not hesitate to get in touch. We'd be happy to hear from you!
Thank you for looking and happy shopping.
Flourish with Neurodiversity, in partnership with AuDHD & Then Some.
If your files do not download automatically,
How to Open ZIP Files:
Download the ZIP file, then right-click →
Extract All on Windows, or double-click on
Mac. Your PDFs will appear in a normal folder.