Do you work in a role where you support autistic children or young people?
Autistica has a resource for professionals in mental health and crisis services, that includes guidance on how to support young autistic people experiencing a mental health crisis.
“Research shows that autistic people are significantly more likely to think about, attempt, and die by suicide than the general population.”
Who should use this guide?
• anyone likely to come into contact professionally with someone who is neurodivergent who has been bereaved or affected by a suicide
• anyone employed to support adults with a neurodivergent diagnosis
We know that for those who are neurodivergent, accessing support after a bereavement by suicide can be difficult.
Many people don’t know they are neurodivergent, and this means they often don’t have access to the right support.
Understanding the importance of autism awareness:
An individual with autism might not always disclose their diagnosis, or in some cases, may not be aware that they are autistic. This means that having an awareness of the characteristics of autism might be crucial, as it can lead to the provision of personalised and specific support, irrespective of an official diagnosis or disclosure.
What is included in the resource?
This report explains the context of mental health challenges and suicidality in relation to autism. It highlights barriers to accessing services for autistic people and suggests adaptations that should be made to make services more accessible and inclusive, including how you can adjust your communication style.
By using the strategies and insights included in this report, you can improve support for autistic children and young people during times of crisis.
For an in-depth exploration, read the full report by Autistica.
