Any good resources on autism, grief and bereavement

Post Reply New Topic

Anyone giving grief advice or therapy to an Autistic person should first understand that person's relationship model. How do they view relationships? Many/most ASD people will not be able to just spit this information out. It took me a few months to come up with this model and the subsequent filter model. You can show them several models, including this one, and ask them which one they relate to as a person with ASD. Only then you will be able to discuss reasonably and accurately that person's loss.

ASD Grief Things to Think About
May or may not cry or overtly show emotions. Alternatively, emotions may be delayed or very extreme when they do come.
Grieving will very possibly manifest itself via increased ASD symptoms (increased sensory processing issues, shutdowns, meltdowns, decreased social abilities, etc.).

May be unable to articulate what is wrong or talk about feelings.

Increased desire to be alone to work things out (this is opposite of most NTs who will feel better by sharing how they feel).
May not relate to many emotional or relational concepts designed by NTs.

Things That May Help...
Taking care of the physical part of the body (nutrition, sleep and exercise).
Alone time.

Learning about ASD symptoms (increased awareness about sensory issues and taking care to avoid triggers).
Time spent with obsession.

Getting involved in viable projects (focusing on helping others).

Setting realistic goals/expectations for recovery (grieving symptoms can last for longer than 1 year).

Discovering/exploring new areas of interest or special interests. Many people with ASD are avid explorers or wanderers.
Take some time to explore or wander. Take up an instrument or new language, etc. Learning helps to calm and to process feelings.

Understanding that your way of grieving is not like everyone else's (the NT world) and that your way is just as valid.

...Hm .

Thanks