Sandland, 2025

The study explored what “Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria“ means to Autistic Neurodivergent adults and found that their experiences were strongly shaped by environmental factors, especially how other people behaved toward them, rather than being an inherent issue within the individual. This challenges narratives that frame RSD as an unavoidable or internal problem for Autistic or Neurodivergent people. Although based on a small group, the research highlights the need for future studies that consider both biological and environmental influences to create better support and more inclusive environments.

View Resource

Aguirre et al., 2025

The study examined insurance data from Autistic youth to see whether receiving applied behaviour analysis (ABA) was linked to mental health outcomes. Youth who received ABA had a 30% higher overall risk of mental health hospitalisation and a 32% higher frequency of hospitalisations compared to those who did not receive ABA. These findings suggest a possible connection between ABA and increased use of acute mental health services, though more research is needed to understand this relationship fully.

Disclaimer: discusses ABA, harm and distress

View Resource

Thom-Jones et al., 2025

This study explored the experiences of 92 Autistic parents from pregnancy through to raising adult children. It found that many faced external challenges such as lack of support and discrimination, as well as internal struggles with self-doubt and well-being. Despite these difficulties, participants described strong parenting strengths, including empathy, open communication, and deep joy in their relationships with their children.

View Resource

Kelly, C., Sharma, S., Jieman, A. T., & Ramon, S. (2022).

This systematic review synthesised qualitative research on the experiences of Autistic women diagnosed in adulthood, analysing accounts from 50 women across nine studies. Four main themes emerged: the struggle to fit in, making sense of the past, developing an autistic identity, and facing barriers to support. Many women described years of misunderstanding and social exclusion before diagnosis, but later found empowerment in embracing their Autistic identity, connecting with others online, and reframing their life experiences.

View Resource

Conner, Ionadi and Mazefsky, (2023)

This article explains that suicide rates have risen sharply in recent years, and research shows that Autistic people are at much higher risk than non-Autistic people. Autistic children and teens are about twice as likely to have suicidal thoughts or attempts, and Autistic adults are around 25 times more likely to attempt suicide. Researchers are still learning why this happens, but common risks include depression, loneliness, and burnout from masking Autistic traits, while social support can help protect against suicidality. More research and Autism-specific prevention efforts are urgently needed.

Disclaimer: discusses suicide.

View Resource

The Trauma Geek. (2024)

Trauma Geek's article on The PDA Neurotype vs Demand Avoidance [+ infographic].

View Resource

Cooke et al., 2025

This review and meta-analysis found that interpersonal violence is strongly associated with worsened mental health, including internalising symptoms and suicidal thoughts, among Autistic individuals. The negative impacts begin in childhood and persist into adulthood, with females and gender minorities experiencing greater health and developmental challenges. These findings highlight the relevance of intersectionality and minority stress theories in understanding the heightened vulnerability of Autistic people, especially those with multiple marginalised identities, including other Neurodivergent traits.

Disclaimer: discusses suicide., violence and harm.

View Resources

Sabo et al., 2025

Research shows that Autistic people, both children and adults, face significantly higher rates of suicidal thoughts and attempts compared to non-Autistic individuals. For example, Autistic adults are up to 25 times more likely to attempt suicide than non-Autistic adults, and similar disparities are seen in younger age groups. Although most research on this topic is recent and often based on online samples, the consistently high rates highlight an urgent need for focused suicide prevention efforts within the Autistic community.
Disclaimer: discusses suicide.

View Resource

Thriving Autistic, 2021

Exploring Autistic Experiences Through Animation. Thriving Autistic presents two new neuro-affirming educational animation videos that celebrate Autistic perspectives. Created by a neurodiverse international team - with all writing by Autistic contributors, these animations explore identity, understanding, and shared experiences. Discovering You’re Autistic highlights the strengths and self-discovery that come with recognising your identity, while Lightbulb Moments: Being Autistic showcases the unique and valuable ways Autistic people experience the world. Each video is supported by two companion blogs — one for the Autistic community and one for professionals — designed to deepen understanding and provide support.

View Resource