Approximately one in four people in the UK will experience mental health problems at some point. Autistic people are more vulnerable to mental health issues, particularly in adolescence and early adulthood. 

This could be due to increased self-awareness, communication or social difficulties and generally feeling isolated. Autistic people have higher levels of poor mental health compared to the general population. Research shows that’s autistic children are 20 times more likely to self-harm, and autistic people are 9 times more likely to feel lonely.

Mental Health and Autism Project

Our Mental Health and Autism Project provides one to one support to autistic young people aged 11-18 years within the Belfast Trust. We receive requests for support from the Child and Adolescents Autism Service in the Belfast Trust. 

Our Mental Health and Autism Project offers early support that aims to remove barriers within home, school and community environments and supporting achievement, enjoyment, and full participation. Each participant will receive 8 – 12 weeks of tailored bespoke early intervention, on issues they have identified with a view to increasing confidence, self-esteem, and emotional well-being.  

80% of autistic participants rated the service as ‘excellent’, many highlighted that with support they had achieved positive change in areas identified by them at the start of the engagement. 

Thank you for everything you have done for me.

You have been incredible; you’ve helped me so much over the past few months. I have more confidence now because of you and more belief in myself. I was so happy after we met for the first time because we just clicked, we liked the same things, and you just understood me. I am really going to miss you and have loved every minute. Thanks for everything.
Autistic Young Person

Further Information

For more information on this service call 028 9040 1729 (option 1),

Or you can email us at info@autismni.org