Autism and mental health: getting support across the UK

In short

• Many autistic people experience anxiety or depression, at any age.
• In England, adults can usually refer themselves to NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression.
• Children and young people usually need a GP or school referral to child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS).
• You can ask for adaptations, such as written information, shorter sessions or a familiar person present.
• If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

Why mental health support matters

Autistic people can experience anxiety, low mood, depression and stress, sometimes because of the difficulties they face at school, work or in social situations. Some people also experience these at different points in their lives.

You do not need to be in crisis to ask for help. Talking to your GP is a good first step, especially if worries are affecting sleep, daily life, relationships, school, work or health.

Talking therapies in England

NHS Talking Therapies offers free help for anxiety and depression. Most local services accept adults aged 18 and over, although some accept younger people, so check your local service.

In most areas you can refer yourself directly through the service website or phone line. You can also ask your GP to refer you. The service can offer therapy in person, by video, on the phone or as an online course.

NHS Talking Therapies is not designed for urgent help. Some conditions need a GP referral instead. If you are not sure, ask your GP.

Child and adolescent mental health services

CAMHS provides mental health support for children and young people. Usually a GP, school or other professional makes the referral. Each area has its own CAMHS service, and the names and routes can differ.

When you contact a service, you can ask for adaptations that suit you or your child, for example:

• Information in writing, or in an easy read format.
• Shorter sessions, or breaks during appointments.
• A consistent worker, and clear information about what will happen.
• A familiar person to attend with you, if you want one.
• Communication through the method that works best, such as text, email or a written plan.

Mental health support in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

Scotland. Mental health support is provided through NHS boards and local services. Ask your GP how to access talking therapies and CAMHS in your area. Scottish services have their own names and routes, so check the information from your NHS board.

Wales. Your GP can refer you to local mental health and talking therapy services. Children and young people can also use CAMHS. For urgent help outside surgery hours, NHS 111 Wales offers a mental health option. Choose option 2 to speak to a mental health professional, at any time of day or night.

Northern Ireland. Your GP is the usual first contact. Local Health and Social Care Trusts provide mental health and CAMHS services. Ask your GP or Trust about the routes available in your area.

Planning for a crisis

If you have a mental health crisis, you may want a written plan. It can list the people to contact, what helps you feel calmer, and what the team should know. You can ask your GP or mental health team to help you write one, and to share it with the right people.

Urgent help

If you or someone else is at immediate risk, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department. For urgent support that is not an emergency, use the options in the guide on staying safe and getting urgent help.

This guide is general information, not medical advice.