World Mental Health day 10th Oct....but what about Autistic Mental Health?

It comes around once every year, World Mental Health Day. On the 10th of October. Yet for many people, their mental health can be a struggle all year round. And if this you you, you are not alone!

But what about autistic mental health? This is something that can be a struggle from a very young age and last way into adulthood...but why?

On the Mental Health Foundation website it is stated that nearly 7 out of 10 autistic adults have an additional mental health condition such as anxiety, depression or OCD.

Some of the reasons for this could be...

• Living in a world that isn't geared up for the autistic or neurodivergent way of being

• Little or no access to autism specific support such as talking therapies or employment support

• Being in a world where autism has little understanding from the public leading to bullying and stigmatisation

• Massively long waiting time for suitable diagnosis

• Limited access to support in increasing autistic self-awareness and self-acceptance

The good news though is that many autistic individuals are able, with the right support to look after their mental health and wellbeing, finding a balance and living positively!

So what are the first steps to this?

• Reach out to someone who is a good listener and non-judgmental. This could be a friend, family member or a therapist who has a good understanding of autism

• Read, watch or listen to other autistic people's experiences; either about mental health or just being in the world in general

• Accept yourself for who you are...there is only one of you!

• Look for the positives in your life (even the smallest positives can make the biggest difference)