Every autistic individual needs different levels of support, has different strengths, and different ways that autism influences their identity. 

Remember depression is an illness and not something you can just “get over,” and verbalizing that sentiment can have an adverse impact on your loved ones. Depression is caused by complex and unique biological, psychological, and environmental factors. 

About 1 in 10 people will experience depression at some point in their life, with women being 2x more likely. Some risk factors include family history of depression, poverty, social isolation, trauma, and/or drug and alcohol use. Depression can range in severity and look different for everyone.

It’s important to provide reassurance and it’s normal to feel frustrated by this at times. Try your best not to get frustrated. Avoid blaming them for their anxiety. Try to separate the person from the symptoms.

Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time but when feelings of anxiety impact your daily functioning, it may be time to seek help.

It was in this season that I was reminded how he is my portion, meaning that when I am in relationship with Him he will fill my every need, and when everything else seems lost, I can forever trust in Him.

The holidays are about togetherness. But when a loved one has died, how can we celebrate togetherness when there is none?