Autism and mental health
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Most autistic people experience a co-occurring mental health condition. Specifially, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Illnesses, or DSM-5 notes "about 70% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have one comorbid mental disorder, and 40% may have two or more comorbid disorders." In comparison, 20% of the general population experience a mental health condition, per the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports
A combination of factors contributes to this. Among them are the social, communication and sensory differences that are part of being autistic. Autistic people often deal with misunderstanding, loneliness and isolation for simply being who they are.
Additionally, while autism screening and diagnosis have improved and become more accessible, the medical community struggles to adequately address the unique mental and general healthcare needs of autistic individuals. This leads to a lack of tailored support, high rates of misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis, untreated related medical conditions and increased barriers to appropriate care.
In short, navigating a world not always designed, welcoming or understanding of their needs can put autistic people at risk for mental health conditions and exacerbate existing symptoms.
Autism Speaks prioritizes supporting the mental health and well-being of autistic individuals through the following:
Advocacy
Our Advocacy team works at the state and federal level to ensure equitable healthcare treatment for autistic people and specifically improve access to mental health care. Among their initiatives:
- Championing the renewal and expansion of the Autism CARES Act, the primary source of federal funding for autism. Included is a $100 million Autism Center for Excellence program to accelerate the research into psychiatric conditions related to autism and mental health for autistic adults, among other related needs.
- Supporting the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAAE) to reduce barriers to mental healthcare service.
Autism Response Team (ART)
ART is an information and referral support for the autism community. Team members are Certified Resource Specialists through Inform USA and are specially trained to provide personalized information and resources - including those related to mental health - to autistic individuals, families, service providers and the community.
Autism Care Network (ACNet)
Autism Care Network, a partnership of 21 medical centers across the U.S., aims to improve care for individuals with autism and their families. The ACNet developed the Clinician Guide: Program Development and Best Practices for Treating Severe Behaviors in Autism to teach licensed professionals best practices in developing individualized programs to manage children and adults with autism at increased risk of engaging in severe and distressing behaviors such as self-injury, aggression and destructive behavior.
Autism Friendly Training
Autism Friendly Training, for individuals, businesses and cities/towns, is for those aligned with Autism Speaks in promoting autism acceptance and building community with autistic people. Developed with self-advocates and autism community members, the training teaches allies how to create autism-friendly spaces, and how to build community with autistic people.
Workplace Inclusion Now™ (WIN)
WIN is a workforce development program designed to promote diversity in hiring and workplace cultures that welcome autistic adults. A key component of WIN is online training courses designed to raise awareness around differences in thinking and communication styles among those with autism and related conditions in order to build inclusive and welcoming workplaces.
Related resources on autism and mental health
Learn and explore more about mental health by clicking below or through the left-hand navigation: