Autism and mental health

ASD and mental health

Young Minds (2021) report that mental health issues are more common in autistic people. One study said as many as 7 out of 10 autistic people also have a condition such as anxiety, depression, OCD or ADHD.

It is important that autistic people, like everyone, look after themselves in order to support their mental health. There can be extra challenges with this, as a result of being autistic. Sometimes we may have to think creatively about how to meet these needs.

Poor mental health should not just be accepted as being ‘part of being autistic’ and support is available for those who need it.

If you need urgent help

For urgent Mental health help and support call 111 and select the mental health option. You should use the NHS 111 service if you urgently need medical help or advice, but it is not a life-threatening situation. 111 is free to call. Or you can contact NHS 111 online.
You can also get advice about mental health support in a crisis or emergency on the NHS website
In a crisis or for urgent support you can also contact: 999 in case of emergency
Children and Young People's Emotional Wellbeing Hub - For less urgent support you can contact The Emotional Wellbeing Hub. They provide:
- a team of Emotional Wellbeing Practitioners for expert information, advice and support
- an online referral form for anyone worried about a child or young person’s emotional wellbeing and mental health. Young people can also self-refer
- a consultation helpline for emotional wellbeing and mental health issues relating to children and young people
- Contact them online or by calling 0345 600 2090 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 7:30pm)

Other support available

For information about autism, mental health and getting support please visit:

Young Minds
National Autistic Society - mental health
National Autistic Society - seeking help
Ambitious about Autism - Sometimes it can be helpful to know ‘your normal.’ This can help you to notice any changes to your mental health. A helpful resource has been created by “Ambitious About Autism”.

Apps

There are lots of helpful apps out there, which can be a nice way for young people to manage their mental health and access support if needed.

Some young people find it easier to use apps as it reduces the pressure of having to communicate verbally (talk).

Please note some apps may be free and some may have a cost. ‘In-app purchasing’ may also be available.

This app, Molehill Mountain, is designed to help autistic people understand more about their anxiety. The app is based on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) approaches adapted for autistic people.
This app, Braininhand, includes:
- a diary
- notes and reminders of daily tasks
- individual coping strategies
- systems to monitor anxiety levels
- way to access support from the National Autistic Society.

On-line and text-based support options

Shout - Shout is crisis messenger service by Young Minds. It is a text service open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It provides free crisis support across the UK. If you are a young person experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, you can: text YM to 85258

Kooth - Kooth is a free, safe and confidential online support for young people. They offer friendly counsellors, Self-help and Community Support.
Chathealth texting service is available for young people aged 11 to 19 years old. Texts are answered to by a member of the school nursing team between 9am and 4:30pm Monday to Friday. (not on bank holidays). You can text them on 07507 333356.