How to Support a Loved One After an Autism Diagnosis

Whether for your child or another person close to you, getting an autism diagnosis can bring up a tidal wave of emotions. Maybe you're feeling relief that there's finally an explanation, grief for the future you imagined, or fear about what comes next. It's possible that you're experiencing a mix of all three at once.

At Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services in Garland, Texas, Chima Asikaiwe, MD, Cecilia Chanda, DNP, PMHNP, and Amy Baynash, PMHNP, specialize in treating autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They’re here for you and want to help you become your loved one’s knowledgeable and skilled support person.

Understand what the diagnosis means

ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how an individual processes information, communicates, and experiences the world around them. It’s on the rise, and according to the CDC, 1 in 31 children eight years old in the United States is diagnosed with ASD. 

The word “spectrum” is important. It highlights the fact that no two people with autism are alike; rather, they’re on the spectrum. 

Some are highly verbal and social but struggle with sensory overwhelm or rigid routines. Others may have limited speech but rich inner lives. Some need intensive support around the clock; others live and work independently with minimal accommodations.

What this means for you is that the diagnosis is a starting point. It opens doors to services, accommodations, and support that weren't accessible before. 

Meet them where they are

One of the most common mistakes well-meaning family members like you can make is to shift into fix-it mode. While support and intervention are necessary, your loved one needs to feel seen and valued first, not treated like a problem to be solved.

Ask questions. Listen without judgment. Follow their lead on how much they want to talk about their ASD diagnosis.

A few practical ways you can meet them where they are:

• Ask how they’re feeling instead of assuming that you know
• Learn their triggers so you can create an environment where they feel safe
• Celebrate their strengths

You’re adjusting to a new understanding of someone that you already love, so meet them where they are as you learn how to support their needs.

You need a support system, too

Research shows that being the full-time caregiver for someone with autism can be stressful and can lead to your own depression and anxiety.  Supporting your loved one with autism is meaningful work, but it can be exhausting and take a toll on your mental health.

Our team understands the demands of caregiving and offers professional services to help you and your loved one, including:

• Talk therapy: to help you process your emotions and develop effective communication strategies
• Psychological testing: to better understand your loved one’s learning style and cognitive profile, so you can advocate for them well
• Medication management: can be beneficial if autism co-occurs with depression or anxiety

Your doctor here at Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services works with you to tailor a treatment plan that gives both you and your loved one the highest quality of life possible.

Be their advocate

Once you understand your loved one's needs, one of the most powerful things you can do is speak up for them in schools, at doctors' offices, in social situations, and within your own family. The sooner your loved one has access to appropriate support, the better their long-term outcomes tend to be.

We recommend working with their school or employer to put accommodations in place and finding support groups and a community where you and your child or family member can belong.

If you're looking for compassionate psychiatric care for someone you love, or for yourself as you take on the caregiver role, turn to Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services for comprehensive autism support. Call now or request an appointment online.