Welcome to Tony Attwood's Website
A guide for parents, professionals and people with Asperger's Syndrome or Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 1 and their partners.
Ask Dr. Tony Webcasts
Regular podcasts in conversation with autismhangout.com founder/reporter Craig Evans > More Info
Participate in Research
Read about research projects that are seeking participation and find out how to get involved > More Info
to be one of the world’s foremost experts on
Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Upcoming Events
Books by Tony Attwood
Tony has published many books about Asperger's Syndrome and Autism.
He has also co-authored and contributed to publications with other experts.
He has also co-authored and contributed to publications with other experts.
New Release Out Now
Autism Working:
A Seven-Stage Plan to Thriving at Work
By Tony Attwood and Michelle Garnett
Tony Attwood, Michelle Garnett, Julia Cook, Louise Ford, and Stefanie Runham
Attwood & Garnett Events
FOUNDED BY PROFESSOR TONY ATTWOOD & DR MICHELLE GARNETT
Dr Michelle Garnett PhD is a clinical psychologist who has specialised in autism within her own private practice for over 27 years. She has co-authored six highly regarded books on autism, five with Prof Tony Attwood. Her 2018 book with Barb Cook is a seminal work on the female presentation, Spectrum Women: Walking to the Beat of Autism. Her most recent books Having Fun with Feelings on the Autism Spectrum and Ten Steps to Reducing Your Child’s Anxiety on the Autism Spectrum provide guidance to parents of young children on the autism spectrum.
Together Tony and Michelle have created a series of online courses that are available to download. There are also webinars consisting of a series of mater classes.
Recent Articles by Tony
05 November 2023
Can Autism be confused with schizophrenia?
The term autism was first used by the Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler in 1919 to describe a withdrawal from reality with a pathological predominance of inner...
05 November 2023
Autism over the age of 50
As clinicians, we have seen an increasing number of adults, and especially women, over the age of 50 seeking confirmation of autism in their developmental history and current...
16 August 2023
Autism and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Researchers and clinicians in the autism area have known about the association between hypermobility and autism for a long time, and hypermobility is one common symptom...
Tony's Facebook Feed
Resource Friday!![]()
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The Awesome Autistic Go-To Guide for Teens and Tweens by Yenn Purkis and Tanya Masterman, JKP: London.![]()
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Full of insights about being awesome and autistic, this book celebrates the strengths of understanding the world in a different way. It looks at all the reasons being you and thinking differently can be totally awesome! It also has tips for managing tricky situations such as meltdowns, sensory differences and anxiety. It includes fun activities and diary pages where you can write your thoughts and feelings to help you concentrate on your strengths and work on your challenges.![]()
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Authors:![]()
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Yenn Purkis is an author, public servant and passionate advocate for Autistic people and their families. Yenn has a diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome and atypical schizophrenia.![]()
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Tanya Masterman is an autistic parent of an autistic child and is Canberra Coordinator for Gifted 2E Support Australia (a national support group for families of twice-exceptional young people) and a former Events Coordinator for Yellow Ladybugs, an organisation that supports autistic girls and gender diverse young people.![]()
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#actuallyautistic #autism #autistic #autismawareness #autismacceptance #autismspectrum #psychologist #psychology #alliedhealthprofessionals #teachers #psychiatry #InclusiveHealthcare #InclusiveSociety #ReseourceFriday
Warning: This video discusses some reasons why autistic teens might self-harm, including aspects like self-hatred and seeking physical or emotional relief. Please be advised that the content may trigger some viewers due to its sensitivity.![]()
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Join Attwood and Garnett Events to gain a deeper and personal understanding of autism, drawing from Michelle's AuDHD experiences and our 80 years of clinical expertise. Our website also features insightful blogs and valuable resources, supplementing the knowledge shared at our events. ![]()
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#autism #autistic #autismawareness #autismacceptance #autismspectrum #psychologist #psychology #AlliedHealthProfessionals #teachers #psychiatry #InclusiveHealthcare #inclusivesociety
Depression may present differently in autistic people. What’s depression like for you?Understanding Anxiety and Depression in Autistic Teenagers: An Overview ![]()
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The prevalence of mental health issues like anxiety and depression is notably higher among autistic teenagers compared to their non-autistic peers. Anxiety and depression in autistic teenagers might not always present in ways seen in non-autistic individuals. They might show mental health symptoms such as increased stimming, changes in routines, or heightened sensory sensitivities, which can sometimes mask the underlying mental health issues (Rhodes et al., 2023; Kerns et al., 2014). ![]()
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This article aims to explore the various factors that may contribute to the development of anxiety and depression in autistic teenagers, drawing on recent research and insights. This article is not only intended for teenagers, but also for adults. It does not encompass all factors.![]()
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The School Environment's Role: ![]()
Academic pressures, inconsistent staffing, and non-sensory-friendly environments in schools can significantly exacerbate stress and anxiety in autistic teens. The lack of predictability and understanding in such environments can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed and misunderstood, heightening the risk of anxiety and depression (Hill et al., 2023; Mukherjee & Beresford, 2023). ![]()
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Socio-Environmental Influences: ![]()
Family dynamics, peer relationships, and community interactions can significantly influence the mental health of autistic teenagers. Difficulties in social communication and forming connections can lead to feelings of isolation and misunderstanding, while supportive and understanding relationships can provide crucial emotional support and resilience against mental health challenges (Rhodes et al., 2023; Mukherjee & Beresford, 2023). ![]()
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Life Events: ![]()
Significant life events such as bereavement or parental separation can deeply affect autistic teenagers. The disruption of routines and the emotional toll of such events can lead to increased anxiety and depression, especially when compounded by challenges in processing and expressing complex emotions (Mukherjee & Beresford, 2023). ![]()
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Loneliness and Lack of Connection: ![]()
Loneliness and a lack of meaningful social connections are significant issues for many autistic teenagers. This isolation can lead to feelings of alienation and sadness, exacerbating symptoms of depression and anxiety. Fostering social connections and providing inclusive social opportunities can be vital in mitigating these feelings (Hymas et al., 2022). ![]()
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Self-Image: ![]()
Struggles with self-image and identity, particularly with being autistic, particularly in how they are perceived and treated by society, can significantly impact the mental health of autistic teens. Negative self-perception and internalised stigma can lead to lowered self-esteem and increased vulnerability to depression and anxiety (Cresswell & Cage, 2019; Berkovits et al., 2020). ![]()
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Navigating a World Not Designed for Autistic Individuals: ![]()
Living in a world that often does not accommodate their needs can be a constant source of stress for autistic teenagers. Daily challenges in communication, sensory processing, and social interaction can lead to a persistent state of anxiety and frustration, potentially leading to the onset of depression (Rhodes et al., 2023). ![]()
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Developmental Transitions: ![]()
The numerous changes and developmental transitions during adolescence can be particularly challenging for autistic teenagers. Navigating puberty, shifting social dynamics, and preparing for adulthood can create additional anxiety and stress, impacting their mental health (Gotham et al., 2015). ![]()
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Executive Functioning Challenges: ![]()
Challenges in executive functioning, such as organising, planning, and adapting to changes, can lead to increased frustration and anxiety for autistic teenagers. These difficulties can make everyday tasks and academic demands more daunting, contributing to feelings of inadequacy and heightened anxiety (Kenworthy et al., 2008). ![]()
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Misunderstanding and Stigma: ![]()
Societal misconceptions about autism and the accompanying stigma can lead to feelings of alienation and misunderstanding. This societal attitude can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression as autistic teens struggle to find acceptance and understanding (Kinnear et al., 2016). ![]()
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Co-occurring Health Conditions: ![]()
Autistic teenagers often experience co-occurring health conditions such as ADHD, gastrointestinal issues, and sleep disorders, which can complicate and worsen their mental health. These additional health challenges can contribute to a higher overall stress level, exacerbating anxiety and depression (Oakley et al., 2021; Simonoff et al., 2008). ![]()
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Pressure to Conform: ![]()
The pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations can be a significant source of stress for autistic teenagers. This pressure, especially in social and educational settings, can lead to increased anxiety and feelings of inadequacy (Cage et al., 2018). ![]()
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Impact of Technology and Social Media: ![]()
The use of technology and social media can have an impact on the mental health of autistic teenagers. While it can offer a means of connection, it can also lead to issues with self-esteem, social comparison, and decreased real-life social interactions, contributing to anxiety and depression (Mazurek et al., 2012). ![]()
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Although some factors influencing mental health are common across both autistic and non-autistic teens and adults, the inherent challenges associated with autism often amplify these issues, leading to more pronounced and complex experiences of anxiety and depression in autistic individuals. ![]()
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#actuallyautistic #autism #autistic #autismawareness #autismacceptance #autismspectrum #psychologist #psychology #alliedhealthprofessionals #teachers #psychiatry #InclusiveHealthcare #InclusiveSociety #BlogWednesday #depression #anxiety #DepressionAndAnxietyAwareness