Mental Health: Anxiety, Depression & Trauma

Extremely common in autistic people—not because autism causes them, but due to navigating a neurotypical world.

"My anxiety isn't irrational. It's a rational response to a lifetime of social situations going wrong." — Autistic adult

Why So Common?

• Chronic stress of neurotypical world
• Constant sensory overwhelm
• Exhaustion from masking (see Masking & Burnout)
• History of bullying and invalidation

Autistic Anxiety

Often isn't irrational—you've learned from real experiences.

Triggers: Uncertainty, sensory overload, social confusion, change, masking demands.

Depression

Contributing factors: Social isolation, rejection, burnout, unmet needs, late diagnosis grief.

Trauma

Autistic people face higher rates of trauma. Common sources: bullying, social rejection, overwhelming sensory experiences, abusive "treatments," needs being dismissed for years.

"For years, everyone said my symptoms were 'just autism.' It wasn't until I got treatment for PTSD that I realized how much trauma I'd been carrying." — Autistic adult

Getting Help

Look for providers who understand autism and will adapt their approach: sensory-friendly environment, predictable structure, clear communication.

Self-help for anxiety: Reduce sensory overwhelm. Increase predictability. Have exit strategies.

Self-help for depression: Engage special interests. Autistic community. Reduce demands.

Crisis Resources

Autistic people face elevated suicide risk. If struggling, tell someone.

US: 988 (Suicide Prevention), Text HOME to 741741.

Sometimes the problem is the environment. Ableism causes distress. Advocacy is part of treatment.