Autistic People's Experiences With Mental Health Services: Intersectionality Matters

Authors

Abstract

Autistic people experience elevated rates of mental health conditions compared to non-autistic people; however, significant barriers to services are encountered. This study reports on the problems autistic people experience when accessing, or trying to access, mental health services in Australia. This report also highlights what would support improvements or solutions to these problems. Open-text responses by 539 participants (including 250 autistic people) were collected via an online survey. Every participant's response was read and coded using content analysis. The most frequently reported problems were a lack of skilled therapists and therapists who understood autism. Respondents identified training needs about autism, more neurodivergent professionals, and increased funding as factors necessary to reduce the problems. An exploratory analysis examining responses through an intersectional lens (specifically autistic people who identify as women, LGBTQIA+, low socioeconomic status, older, or living in regional/remote areas) suggests differing perspectives and experiences. While overlapping identities were not analysed cumulatively, the findings offer a foundational view to guide future, more granular inquiry to improve mental health service experiences for autistic people. Lay Abstract Many autistic people will experience mental health challenges, such as anxiety or depression. Sometimes these challenges can become significant enough that support is needed from a mental health professional. In this study, we wanted to find out what experiences autistic people have when they seek help from a mental healthcare professional or a mental health service. We also wanted to know what can be done to improve these experiences. We received responses from 539 people. Nearly half were autistic people, others were parents/caregivers/family, and allied health, medical or mental healthcare professionals. The most common problem reported was difficulty finding therapists who are skilled or who understand autism. Many people suggested that mental health professionals need more training about autism, and that better funding is needed to help autistic people access appropriate support. We know that not all autistic people have the same experience. So, we went on to look at the data more closely to see how experiences differed based on factors such as gender or age. This analysis showed that different groups can face different barriers or challenges. These findings suggest that more research is needed to better understand the needs of specific groups and to improve mental health services for all autistic people.

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