Sons response when agitated

Hi, my 15 year old son has recently received a ASD diagnosis. We are just coming to terms with it and my son at the moment does not wish to talk about. But the main thing we are struggling with is his response when he becomes upset. He goes for 0-10 in seconds which i know is common in ASD. But is language is frightening. Just want to make it clear i don't think for one minute he will do these things and i know it's a response but if anyone can offer any advice on how to support him to use other strategies for these times. He doesn't swear but he threatens to smash places up, kills his family, friends, neighbours, pets. And the threats are very graphic. He has always done this but the threats are much more intense. Thanks  

  • Hello ,

    I'm sorry to hear that you're struggling with your son's behaviour. Individuals on the spectrum can often display behaviour that may be challenging. There will generally be a reason for this and it is important to try and understand the trigger for the behaviour when developing strategies. You may like to have a look at the following link for more information on behaviour and strategies: 

    https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/behaviour 

    You may be interested in seeking some professional support regarding the behaviour. You can search for professionals in your area we are aware of on the Autism Services Directory: 

    https://www.autism.org.uk/directory 

    You might also like to take a look at The Challenging Behaviour Foundation website for further information and advice: 

    https://www.challengingbehaviour.org.uk.  They also have an information and support service which you can contact by phone or email – details can be found here: https://www.challengingbehaviour.org.uk/for-family-carers/family-support-service/ 

    All the best,

    ChloeMod

  • Hi, I'm sorry to hear that. My daughter, who is 16 tomorrow, went through a similar thing. She was diagnosed at 14 and doesn't like talking about it much either. We were walking on eggshells. Her mood changes quickly and it was scary. She would threaten to run away and kill herself. She would threaten to kill us and would scream the place down. Sometimes it was because there wasn't a clean 'normal' spoon to use. It was bad. 

    We handled her behaviour by moving her to a safe place away from everyone, or if that wasn't possible we would move the children and pets away to a different room. This then gave her the space to calk down. I would get her things to calm her down, ice packs, weighted blanket, favourite toys. And I would put a film on for her to help her relax with the lights off. Safety always comes first. I know they are threats and words but they are scary and I admit, I have had to call the police a few times. 

    I hope you find out ways to help. Sorry if this doesn't help but you aren't alone. We are still figuring out new ways. Don't forget, he's a teenager so is going through the same changes and hormonal changes as everyone else. Adding autism into the equation makes things even more difficult for the family. Good luck.