During Mental Health Awareness Month, we would like to bring attention to conversations occurring on the Autism Society of America National Helpline.
We hear from parents navigating new diagnoses, caregivers struggling to access services, grandparents stepping into support roles and families trying to balance work, finances and everyday life while making sure their loved one has what they need to thrive.
It can sound like:
“I’m worried about what happens in the future.”
“I haven’t taken care of myself in a long time.”
“I’m overwhelmed and don’t know where to start.”
It is clear from our conversations that caregivers are carrying a tremendous amount. Research reflects this reality; a 2024 review from Brian Sciences found that parents and caregivers of autistic individuals experience higher rates of stress, anxiety, and depression compared to the general population. For many families, caregiving does not fit neatly into business hours. It extends into evenings spent researching, mornings navigating routines, weekends coordinating appointments, and countless moments spent advocating.
One of the most important things we want families to hear is this: your wellbeing matters.
Mental health is not separate from caregiving; it is part of sustainable caregiving. When caregivers are struggling, the effects can ripple across the entire family system.
Small steps can help, even when self-care feels unrealistic or unattainable.
- Find a local or online support option
- Learn about respite programs
- Ask for practical help from family and friends. Laundry, grocery runs
- Give your self-permission to have days when the bar or goal is lower.
- Take a few moments for yourself-meet your own basic needs. Food, rest, and movement.
The work of caregiving is significant, and no one should have to carry it without support. Every day, The National Helpline works to help people find resources, information and connection, but also to remind caregivers that their wellbeing is an important and deserving of support and resources.
Resources:
Caring for the Caregiver (video)
Citations:
Sánchez Amate JJ, Luque de la Rosa A. The Effect of Autism Spectrum Disorder on Family Mental Health: Challenges, Emotional Impact, and Coping Strategies. Brain Sci. 2024 Nov 1;14(11):1116. doi: 10.3390/brainsci14111116. PMID: 39595879; PMCID: PMC11592025.
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