Stages of Hyperfixation

Hyperfixations can be a source of immense joy for autistic folk, however, the loss of a hyperfixation can be a source of pain and sadness.

Each hyperfiaxtion will have it's own timeline, some may last years or even decades.

It is important to know what stage someone is at to be aware of how their hyperfiaxtion may be making them feel and what their needs may be around this.

Stage 1: Discovery

You find a new interest, piece of media, topic or hobby which piques your interest. You begin to spend time on this. This stage usually comes with excitement.

Stage 2: Consumption:

You take in as much information as you can about your hyperfixation, you spend a lot of time thinking about it and wanting to talk about it. This stage usually brings increased joy.

Stage 3: Departing

You realise you are no longer fixating on it as much. You can feel your interest decreasing. This stage is usually accompanied by worry.

Stage 4: Loss

You stop really consuming, thinking about or focusing on it. The joy associated with this has gone. This stage usually comes with the feeling of loss.

Losing a hyperfixation can leave a person feeling lost or empty, we can feel fearful about not having our source of joy. We may have been relying on our hyperfixation for grounding or coping and we may not know how we will cope without this.