Mental health of autistic adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: The impact of perceived stress, intolerance of uncertainty, and coping style.

ABSTRACT

LAY ABSTRACT More and more research shows us that autistic individuals are at risk of experiencing mental health problems in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, little is known about why this is the case. At two timepoints during the pandemic, we asked 149 autistic and 147 non-autistic adults about feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress, and about characteristics that may explain why some (autistic) people have a larger chance of developing anxiety and depression during this pandemic. In our study, autistic adults experienced more anxiety and depression than non-autistic adults. Across autistic and non-autistic individuals, the people who experienced more stress at timepoint 1 experienced more anxiety and depression 4 months later. This was especially the case for those individuals who use maladaptive coping styles, such as denial or venting, and for those who have difficulties dealing with uncertain situations. Our findings show the burden of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of autistic adults. Interventions to support autistic adults during and after the pandemic are needed, and they may want to focus on the negative impact of stress and teach autistic (and non-autistic) adults more adaptive ways to cope with stressful circumstances.