Summary
Filled with strategies and advice, this empowering guide presents practical ways to improve the mental wellbeing of people on the Autism Spectrum.
This helpful guide focusses on the specific difficulties that can arise for people on the autism spectrum who may also experience a mental illness. The book includes information on common mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, as well as strategies for improving sleep patterns and mindfulness. Providing guidance on the benefits and drawbacks of therapy pets, medication, and psychotherapy, the authors offer balanced perspectives on treatment options and introduce self-help strategies tailored to meet your needs and improve your mental wellbeing. A number of short personal narratives from people on the autism spectrum and mental health issues illustrate the text.
The book also includes a list of resources, books and organisations that can provide further support and inspiration.
Jeanette Purkis has a lived experience of autism and mental illness and is also the author of two books looking at aspects of autism. She holds a Master's degree in Fine Arts from RMIT University and works full time in the Australian Public Service, Jeanette lives in Canberra, Australia.
Dr Emma Goodall has Asperger's syndrome and has had professional experience of mental health services. Emma is a senior autism advisor in South Australia and an executive committee member of the Australian Society for Autism Research (ASANR), as well as an executive committee member for the Autistic Sell Advocacy Network (ASAN) of Australia and New Zealand. She lives in Adelaide, South Australia, with her partner.
Dr Jane Nugent is a psychiatric career medical officer with general practitioner training. She has a talent for taking highly technical information and making it accessible to non-specialists. Jane has been involved in pharmacology teaching for a variety of New Zealand and Australian institutions since 1997.
