“Consistent Support Is Good for My Mental Health”—Exploring the Lived Experience of Autistic Mental Health

Authors

Abstract

Background: Literature indicates that mental health of autistic individuals is substantially poorer than that of the general population. Mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety, which contribute to high suicide rates, feature prominently in research. Few studies, however, have considered the lived experience of mental health across the lifespan, which includes the experience of positive mental health. This research investigated the lived experience of mental health of autistic adults. Method: We used reflexive thematic analysis, underpinned by a coproduction framework, to explore mental health experiences. Through coproduction with a steering group of autistic adults to inform the questions, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 Australian autistic adults, diagnosed in adolescence or adulthood. Results: The thematic analysis identified four main themes, including discovering autistic identity, body and mind, connections to family and community, and choice and control. Participants reported highly heterogenous life experiences, with intense experiences of mental health, both positive and negative. All participants experienced mental health challenges, and most had experienced a diagnosed mental illness. Protective factors that mitigated against mental illness included supportive environments, relationships, and positive societal attitudes. Conclusion: While some of the themes are universal, some of the subthemes, such as the significance of sensory input and adaptive morphing to hide autistic traits, do not feature in non-autistic mental health literature. These factors, which frequently interrelate, may be overlooked by mental health care providers. The findings of this research emphasize that in order to support positive mental health outcomes, there is a strong need for therapies and disability supports to be targeted and tailor-made to the individual.

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