Autism and Community Mental Health teams

Hello,

I’m looking for some advice and support regarding my son. He is autistic and has ADHD. He’s recently been under the Hampshire Community Mental Health Team and has been diagnosed with severe depression, health anxiety, and rumination. He is currently on 200mg sertraline and has just started a small dose of risperidone. Therapy has also been suggested.

What’s confusing and worrying me is that the CMHT have said that because he is autistic, he may not “fit” under their team and could be referred elsewhere (for example, to autism services like NAS). I’m struggling to understand this, as I thought severe depression and anxiety would be within CMHT care.

I would really appreciate hearing from anyone who has been through something similar:

  • Have you or your family member been told you don’t fit CMHT because of autism?

  • If so, what support did you end up getting and how did you make sure mental health needs were still met?

  • Any advice on how to advocate effectively so my son doesn’t get lost between services?

Thank you in advance. I just want to make sure he gets consistent care and isn’t passed around without proper support.


Parents
  • I think an autism centred therapy would be a good thing. My son had therapy from a therapist who didn’t seem to have a clue about autism and it didn’t go well at all. I’d follow their suggestion regarding this. Be careful with the drugs - they can prompt suicidal ideation (and action). 

Reply
  • I think an autism centred therapy would be a good thing. My son had therapy from a therapist who didn’t seem to have a clue about autism and it didn’t go well at all. I’d follow their suggestion regarding this. Be careful with the drugs - they can prompt suicidal ideation (and action). 

Children
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