By K J Foxhall 
As an autistic person, I often get asked about the difference between a tantrum and a meltdown. This distinction can be relevant at any age, though the expressions of these experiences can change as someone gets older.
For children, meltdowns can be quite explosive. I often describe meltdowns as deeper, more akin to volcanic eruptions. Tantrums tend to last a maximum of 10 minutes and in contrast, meltdowns can last for hours.
Of course, the duration and intensity of either, and sometimes both at the same time, vary from person to person but there is a difference compared to one losing their temper, or being in an uncontrollable mood.
Meltdowns are uncontrollable and in the audio we explain why.