Abstract

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.

This book is more than just another resource tool for those of us living with an Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). It is a guide book for all those bumps in the road that offer a variety of options and confuse us or catch us unawares. It takes our mental health threats and draws a map to aid navigation around or through these. Its clear and concise explanations plus practical application make it a must have for anyone living with and supporting ASC individuals.
from the foreword by Wenn Lawson, PhD, CPsychol, lecturer, and author of Older Adults and Autism Spectrum Conditions
Finally, a much needed contribution to the literature on Autism and Mental Health. Incredibly readable, this is a self-help book for adults across the spectrum to understand, manage and improve their mental health. A practical resource, dense with information and strategies, it covers many aspects of mental health, all of which are woven into the rich tapestry of the author's personal experience. The stories shared give this book another dimension by providing valuable insights into supporting those with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), making it an essential companion for families, friends and mental health professionals.
Gillian Chappé de Léonval,Family Support Advisor, Autism Asperger ACT
For individuals with autism and mental health conditions, this self-help book empowers the reader with the information necessary to improve their lives. This book also needs to be read by neurotypicals for the exceptional insight into the autistic mind. I especially liked the thorough information regarding the importance of pets as therapy. This is a MUST READ!
Anita Lesko, BSN, RN, MS, CRNA, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Autism Advocate, Author, Speaker, Diagnosed with Asperger's at age 50

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. She has a PhD in the area of education and the autism spectrum and is the author of a text book for teaching AS children. Emma is a Senior Autism Advisor in South Australia and an executive committee member of the Australian Society for Autism Research (ASfAR), as well as an executive committee member for the Autistic Self-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 special interest in mental health and a passion for psychopharmacology. 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.

This guide lives up to my high expectations and the authors' wisdom continues to guide my practice and challenge what I understand about autism. In my opinion, this is an essential resource for not only the person affected but also the people in their lives.
from the foreword by Kirsty Dempster-Rivett, MSocSci PGDip Psych (Clin.)
This book provides a treasure trove of information for people on the autism spectrum who face a range of mental health issues. It is accessible in terms of ease of reading, provides useful information regarding interventions, strategies, peer mentoring and self-management. It is an important addition to the field and provides a positive focus on this critical topic.
Professor Sylvia Rodger AM, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland