---
title: "Mental Health Matters: Emotional Wellbeing & Autism"
description: Supporting autistic emotional wellbeing with inclusive, evidence-based care at Autism West during Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond.
---

[blog](https://blog.autismwestbehavioralpartners.com/blog)

# [Mental Health Matters: Emotional Wellbeing & Autism](https://blog.autismwestbehavioralpartners.com/blog/mental-health-matters-emotional-wellbeing-autism)

 Written by [Ella Witherite](https://blog.autismwestbehavioralpartners.com/blog/author/ella-witherite) | May 27, 2025, 5:04:15 PM

**May is Mental Health Awareness Month**, a time to highlight the mental health challenges many autistic people face in the U.S. For those in the autistic community, mental health plays a big role in daily life, access to services, and overall wellbeing.

At **Autism West Behavior Partners**, we believe mental health support isn’t optional—it’s essential.

**Mental Health Challenges in the U.S. Autistic Community**

Mental health challenges are common in the autistic community. According to [*Autism Speaks* (2023):](https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-numbers-2023-annual-report)

- Nearly **70%** of autistic people have at least one mental health condition (like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or OCD).
- Around **40%** have two or more mental health diagnoses.

#### Why is the risk so high?

Several factors contribute to these mental health struggles:

- **Sensory and social stress:** Overwhelming environments and social situations can lead to chronic anxiety.
- **Stigma and misunderstanding:** Many autistic people feel dismissed or misunderstood, especially when expressing emotional distress.
- **Limited access to care:** Many mental health professionals aren’t trained in autism-specific support, making it hard to find effective help.

The [*CDC*](https://www.cdc.gov/autism/data-research/index.html) also reports that:

- About **1 in 36 U.S. children** are diagnosed with autism.
- A 2022 study found **autistic adults are five times more likely** to visit the ER for mental health crises than non-autistic adults—showing a clear need for better ongoing support.

# **How Autism West Behavior Partners Supports Mental Health**

At Autism West, we offer programs that support both mental health and everyday functioning. Our care is tailored, inclusive, and backed by evidence.

[Here’s how we help:](https://www.autismwestbehavioralpartners.com/)

#### 🧠 Holistic ABA Therapy

We include emotional regulation and coping skills in our ABA programs to help individuals feel more confident and resilient.

#### 🧑‍⚕️ Individual Counseling

Our licensed therapists provide in-person and virtual counseling that’s adapted for neurodivergent minds. We work with both kids and young adults to manage anxiety, depression, and more.

#### 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Caregiver Coaching & Support

We offer guidance and support groups for parents and caregivers to help them manage stress and support their loved ones.

#### 🧩 Social & Emotional Groups

Our group sessions focus on building social connections, emotional awareness, and communication skills—helping participants grow and thrive in their communities.

**U.S.-Based Mental Health & Autism Resources**

- Looking for more support? These trusted organizations offer helpful tools and services:
  
    - **Autism Society of America**  
      [autism-society.org](https://www.autism-society.org)  
      → Offers advocacy, education, and local resources.
    - **Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)**  
      [autisticadvocacy.org](https://www.autisticadvocacy.org)  
      → Run by autistic people, offering toolkits and resources.
    - **National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)**  
      [nami.org](https://www.nami.org)  
      → Find local support groups and educational tools.
    - **SAMHSA’s National Helpline**  
      📞 1-800-662-HELP (4357)  
      → Free, 24/7 mental health support and referrals.
    - **Mental Health America**  
      [mhanational.org](https://www.mhanational.org)  
      → Offers screening tools and mental health resources.

# **Our Commitment at Autism West**

At Autism West Behavior Partners, we’re building a future where every autistic individual can access the **compassionate, competent, and customized care** they deserve. Mental health support isn’t a bonus—it’s a right. And we’re proud to stand with the autistic community to make it a reality.

# **📍 Contact Us**

We serve families across the Denver metro area and beyond:

- **Aurora** | **Northglenn** | **Westminster** | **Green Valley Ranch**
  
  📧 info@awbpartners.com  
  🌐[www.autismwestbehavioralpartners.com](https://www.autismwestbehavioralpartners.com/)

Resources: 

[https://www.cdc.gov/autism/data-research/?CDC\_AAref\_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html](https://www.cdc.gov/autism/data-research/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html)

[https://www.autismspeaks.org/science-news/why-autism-increasing](https://www.autismspeaks.org/science-news/why-autism-increasing)

*Follow our social media *

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