A range of resources for parents, carers, and professionals on supporting neurodivergent individuals.
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Autism
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental difference that affects how individuals communicate, interact socially, and process information. It exists on a spectrum, meaning the traits and challenges experienced can vary widely from person to person.
Research shows that autistic people are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and also suicidal thoughts. Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among autistic people and up to 66% of autistic adults have thought about suicide at some point in their lives (Hedley & Uljarević, 2018).
Individuals with autism are at a higher risk of suicide due to a combination of social, emotional, and psychological factors. The challenges they face, including differences in social interactions, sensory experience, and communication barriers, can lead to feelings of isolation, misunderstanding, and frustration. Many individuals with autism also experience co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, which can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.
The lack of adequate support, stigma, and societal expectations that may not accommodate neurodivergent needs can make these more challenging to live with.
61.8 million
individuals worldwide have autism.
968,651
people (adults and children) diagnosed in the UK.
1 in 4
autistic people have attempted suicide.
13x
more likely that autistic women will die by suicide.
Autism traits
People who are on the autism spectrum may display a broad range of traits. These may include:
- Discomfort in social situations and discomfort with some eye contact
- A preference for direct communication
- Taking things literally.
- Thriving with routines but being less flexible when sudden changes are required
- Noticing small details or patterns that peers wouldn’t, sensitivity to sensations that others can’t feel, hear, or smell
- Having very intense and specific interests.
Masking
Some autistic adults will camouflage their autism symptoms to fit in, be accepted by others, and stay safe when out and about. This can be conscious or unconscious behaviour, and is often known as masking.
While this behaviour can have benefits, studies show that autistic people who mask may also be at higher risk of anxiety, depression and suicidal behaviours.
Women with autism may be more likely to:
- Have learned to hide signs of autism to ‘fit in’
- Be quieter and hide their feelings
- Appear to cope better with social situations
- Display fewer signs of repetitive behaviours.
Space
The needs of autistic people can be understood through the following key needs and challenges.
Space itself is also a common need for autistic people. This includes physical space, emotional space, and the space to process new information, particularly unexpected change.
Sensory needs
Predictability
Acceptance
Communication
Empathy
Sensory needs
Many autistic people have heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory stimuli, making certain environments overwhelming or uncomfortable.
Predictability
Autistic individuals often thrive in structured environments where routine and expectations are clear.
Acceptance
Feeling accepted for who they are, without judgement or pressure to conform, is crucial for well-being.
Communication
Autistic individuals may experience challenges with both verbal and non-verbal communication, and often benefit from support to express themselves and to better understand others.
Approximately one in four autistic people speak few or no words, but can communicate in other ways. Some autistic people take longer to process information, but it doesn’t mean they don’t understand.
Empathy
Autistic people need to receive empathy from others, understanding that their experiences and challenges may be different but equally valid.
Real stories
Greta Thunberg, environmentalist
Greta Thunberg has openly discussed being neurodivergent, identifying as being on the autism spectrum. Her neurodivergence contributes to her unique perspective and determination in tackling the climate crisis with dedication.
“When I felt the most sad, I didn’t know that I had autism. I just thought, I don’t want to be like this. The diagnosis was almost only positive for me. It helped me get the support I needed and made me understand why I was like this.”
Chris Packham, naturalist and presenter
Chris Packham has spoken publicly about his diagnosis of autism.
In this short clip, he discusses some of the challenges and barriers that autism can pose, as well as the benefits that neurological uniqueness brings to his life.
Sam Thompson, reality TV star and TV presenter
Sam was diagnosed with ADHD and autism later in life. Growing up, he struggled with disorganisation, hyperactivity, and inattention, often feeling “stupid” and “different.”
He now raises awareness of both ADHD and autism, regularly sharing his experiences with his three million social media followers. Sam describes his neurotypes as a “super power” and says, “I really hope that I can be a small part of young people accepting themselves for who they are, neurodivergent or not.”
What I struggle with as an autistic adult
Samantha Stein opens up about the daily struggles she faces as an autistic adult. Despite appearing to cope well on the outside, she reveals the intense inner world of noise and difficulty she experiences. Her video sheds light on the challenges of navigating life with autism, highlighting the contrast between external appearances and internal realities.
Watch on Youtube now.
Stories of hope - Ella
“I remember being completely overwhelmed and visiting my GP to ask for help. I am autistic (though I did not know it at the time), and I was not coping very well in an overwhelming world.
When I was identified as autistic, all of a sudden, all the pain, the overwhelm, and despair made sense. I hadn’t been the problem, but just a mismatch between the world and myself. Now, I live in an environment where I can cope and be myself more. This has been hugely beneficial for my mental health and well-being. I feel I have a future now and I understand how to look after myself.”
Are you struggling?
If you are having suicidal thoughts, remember that these feelings are temporary, and help is available. It may be hard to talk about these feelings, but there are ways to keep yourself safe.
- Safety plan: You can use our safety plan to help you. This could include a list of people you can contact, like family, friends, or a therapist, and activities that help calm you, like going for a walk, using sensory tools, or doing grounding exercises to feel more in control.
- Seek help: It’s also important to reach out to others when you’re feeling unable to stay safe. If talking is hard, try writing your feelings down in a text or email, or speak to a professional through a helpline or chat service. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and people care about you and want to support you.
- Mental health: Taking care of your mental health is also key. Consider finding a mental health professional who understands autism and can help you with coping strategies.
- Be kind to yourself: Recognise that it’s okay to struggle at times. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are many people and resources ready to support you.
Stay Alive app
Download our NHS-recommended app if you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are concerned about someone. There are over 800 resources to help you stay safe for now.
National Autistic Society
Trained volunteers run support, information and social activities for autistic adults, children and their families in their local area.
- Call 0808 500 2222
- Visit the website
National Autistic Society - directory
A directory of UK-wide or local organisations and services that are specifically for, or have adapted their services, to meet the needs of autistic people and/or their families.
National Autistic Society - mental health hub
Advice and guidance on a range of topics related to autism and mental health.
Emergency Chat
Emergency Chat is an app that can be used in any situation where speech is impossible but communication is still necessary.
Molehill Mountain
Molehill Mountain is an app to help autistic people understand and self-manage the symptoms and causes of anxiety.
Autistica - mental health & autism
The Autistica Tips Hub is a free app that offers practical tips and high-quality resources to make everyday life easier.
Ambitious About Autism
Information and practical support for children, young people and families, as well as specialist education and employment programmes.
Contact your GP
They will help you get support from the right services and will sometimes take appointments over the phone.
- Find your GP contact details
- If your GP practice is closed or unavailable, call NHS 111
- Visit the NHS 111 website
Enhanced Safety Plan
Our Enhanced Suicide Safety Plan and Communication Toolkit are designed to be completed when you’re feeling stable, so you have a clear, supportive resource to refer to in times of crisis. This tool includes emergency contacts, helpful prompts, and practical steps to guide you through difficult moments, offering a sense of safety and control. By filling out the plan in advance, you can feel more prepared and confident in reaching out for support when needed.
Accessing a diagnosis
For many people, a diagnosis can provide a person with helpful insight and clarity, also opening doors to further support. If you suspect you are autistic, speak to a GP.
It’s not always easy to get an assessment, and waiting times can be long, although there are often several routes to access an assessment. It can be helpful to consider other options for support in the meantime.
For information on how to access an assessment through the NHS, visit their dedicated page here.
Are you supporting someone?
Actively listen: Be patient, listen actively, and avoid dismissing their emotions. Break spoken instructions up and allow for extra processing time. Accept all forms of communication as valid (including behaviours) and respect their preferences.
Be aware of emotional challenges: Consider that some autistic people experience alexithymia (challenges in recognising, expressing, feeling, sourcing, and describing emotions) or may mask their feelings, so may not outwardly portray their distress through tone of voice or facial expressions.
Be direct and clear: Keep language direct and specific. Avoid using shorthand terms, colloquialisms, metaphors, idioms, irony and sarcasm as they can be misinterpreted or taken literally.
Consider the environment: Sensory overload or sensory differences can heighten anxiety and trigger a meltdown. Designate a low-stimulation space and avoid unexpected interruptions for better communication. Allow for downtime to avoid over-stimulation.
Ask about communication preferences: If someone struggles to speak on the phone or face-to-face, try to suggest services which are available online, by messenger, or by text. You can find a list of services below.
Stay Alive app
Download our NHS-recommended app if you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are concerned about someone. There are over 800 resources to help you stay safe for now.
Autism Central
Advice and support for parents and carers of children, young people and adults.
Child Autism
Dedicated to helping children with autism achieve their potential, they provide services and advice to families who have an autistic child.
- Learn more
- Call 01344 882248
Autistica
Advice and guidance for those supporting an autistic person experiencing distress or a meltdown.
National Autistic Society - Good Practice Guide
Produced in collaboration with Mind, this guide aims to help mental health professionals adapt talking therapies for autistic adults and children.
The ADHD Foundation
Expert-led training for professionals offering practical strategies across a wide range of subjects and many areas of neurodiversity.
NHS
The NHS ADHD pages provide information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and support for individuals with autism.
Find advice and sources of support for other neurotypes.
Learn more about how to have a conversation with someone at risk of suicide.
Resources
61.8 million individuals worldwide have autism – Kopetz, Patricia B., “Autism Worldwide: Prevalence, Perceptions, Acceptance, Action” (2012). Education Sciences and Professional Programs Faculty Works. 34.
968,651 people (adults and children) diagnosed in the UK – UK Parliament (2025) Written Questions and Answers Daily Report, 23 July 2025, HC 1234-2025.
1 in 4 autistic people have attempted suicide – Newell, V., Phillips, L., Jones, C. et al. A systematic review and meta-analysis of suicidality in autistic and possibly autistic people without co-occurring intellectual disability. Molecular Autism 14, 12 (2023).
13x more likely that autistic women will die by suicide – Dawes, V. (2023). Autistic burnout. Written evidence submitted to the Health and Social Care Committee. UK Parliament
Communication toolkit – Based on the Autism-Adapted-Safety Plan developed by Newcastle University.