Every kid deserves to grow up feeling happy, confident, and safe. For many children, including children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mental health problems can get in the way of living a healthy and fulfilling life.
Why is Mental Health Important?
Our mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. A child’s psychological well-being can impact how the child forms and maintains relationships, performs in school, or participates in activities. Good mental health helps children build positive social, thinking, and communication skills, setting a positive trajectory for adulthood.
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Mental Health
Autistic children have unique needs when it comes to mental health. A large percentage (nearly 78%) of kids with ASD also have at least one mental health condition. Not all children on the spectrum have mental health issues, but as parents, it’s good to be aware of common disorders and symptoms.
Common mental health conditions found in autistic children include:
Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Eating Disorders
Sleep Disorders
Some kids with autism run a higher risk of mental health challenges because they may struggle to regulate their emotions and handle the day-to-day stressors in their lives. Read more about autism and co-occurring conditions in children here.
Early Intervention and Support
Early intervention is important to address mental health problems in children. The sooner a child gets the help they need, the better their chances of fully recovering and leading a healthy life.
What can you do if you suspect your child has a mental health issue? The first thing you should do is consult with your child’s healthcare provider. Their primary care physician may recommend seeking further professional help from a pediatric therapist.
5 Ways to Support Your Child at Home
As parents, it can be hard to adhere to our children’s specific needs, strengths, and preferences, especially if multiple kids are in the family.
Here are a few tips and tricks for parents to help support a child with mental health issues.
#1. Be Flexible
Every child is unique. Try different coping mechanisms at home, like deep breathing, for managing stress, anxiety, or challenges until you find something that works.
#2. Keep a Routine
Consistent routines give kids a sense of stability and predictability. Routines can be especially helpful for managing anxiety and OCD.
#3. Educate Yourself
Learn the ins and outs of your child’s specific mental health condition. What are some common challenges, symptoms, therapies, etc?
#4. Healthy Habits
Feeding your child a well-balanced diet and ensuring they get regular exercise and sleep can help. Physical well-being is linked to mental health.
#5. Screen Time
Be mindful of your child’s screen time, including social media. Too much screen time can cause stress and negatively impact mental health.
