Supporting the Mental Health of Autistic Students
This resource for school staff offers key practices to support the well-being of autistic students at school.
Why is it important to understand the intersections of autism and mental health?
School staff can play a powerful role as they influence many of the factors associated with improved mental health and well-being for autistic students. Schools are vital in fostering conditions that promote well-being, early identification of emerging mental health concerns and coordination of supports.
How might I use this info sheet?
This info sheet can be used to support individual and group learning and reflection for school staff, as it highlights:
- factors associated with improved mental health and well-being for autistic students
- recommended practices across mental health promotion, learning and supports/services
- prompts to generate reflection and discussion
- additional tools and resources to go deeper
This info sheet is intended to be used alongside the Autism, Mental Health and the School Context evidence brief, building on the research by supporting reflection and guiding action for school staff.
A note about language:
This info sheet prioritizes identity-first language (e.g., autistic students) versus person-first language (e.g., student with autism). This reflects the preferences of many individuals with lived experience. It is important to honour self-identification as a key identity-affirming practice by centring the preferences of the individual students and families within your school communities.
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