Evaluating a Workbook to Promote Autistic Wellbeing
This UK study is testing a new self-help workbook specifically designed for autistic adults who are supported by NHS mental health services. The main goal is to find out if the workbook is practical to use, if people find it helpful and easy to follow, and if it makes a positive difference to their wellbeing. We know many autistic adults face mental health challenges, and support can be limited. This workbook focuses on helping people understand autism better, manage their energy, and develop personal wellbeing strategies. Researchers want to learn if engaging with this workbook, with support from a mental health professional, can lead to real improvements in how autistic adults feel and cope in their daily lives.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about a new self-help workbook created just for autistic adults. We know that many autistic people find it hard to get the right support for their mental health within the NHS, even though many experience stress, anxiety, or depression. Sometimes, everyday life can lead to an 'autistic burnout,' which is a deep exhaustion, perhaps from trying to hide autistic traits to fit in, or simply not getting enough understanding and support.
Traditional therapies sometimes aren't quite right for autistic people. So, this study wants to see if a special workbook, used with some guidance, could be a good way to offer help. The workbook is designed to help autistic adults understand their autism better, learn to manage their energy levels, and create their own plans for staying well. The idea is to help people feel better in their day-to-day lives.
The researchers are keen to find out if it's easy for autistic adults to join this study and stick with using the workbook. They also want to hear if people find the workbook useful and if it actually helps improve how they feel. Your feedback is really important, as it will help make future versions even better and ensure that support is truly helpful for autistic adults.
Key takeaways
- A self-help workbook for autistic adults is being tested.
- It aims to improve understanding of autism and wellbeing strategies.
- You get support from an NHS professional while using the workbook.
- Your feedback is important to improve future support.
- The study assesses if the workbook is helpful and easy to use.
- It could offer new ways to manage mental health and prevent 'burnout'.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be an adult (18 or over) and have an autism diagnosis, be on a waiting list for one, or identify as autistic and score highly on a specific autism questionnaire. You also need to be receiving care from a community mental health team in Kent and Medway and not be leaving their care during the study.
It's important that your mental health is stable enough to take part, as decided by your care team. If you take medication for your mental health, the dose should have been steady for at least three months. You should also be able to read and write in English to use the workbook.
However, this study might not be suitable if you have a moderate to severe learning disability that would make it hard to use the self-help materials on your own. You also can't take part if you're already receiving another type of talking therapy or if you're experiencing a mental health crisis right now.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you identify as autistic, have a diagnosis, or are on a waiting list?
- Are you currently supported by a Kent and Medway NHS mental health team?
- Is your mental health stable enough to take part, as decided by your care team?
- Can you read and write in English?
- Are you not currently in a mental health crisis or doing another talking therapy?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll use a special self-help workbook over 4 to 6 sessions. Each session will last between 30 minutes and an hour, and you’ll have support from a trained NHS professional, like a support worker or assistant psychologist, who will guide you through the workbook.
You'll be asked to fill out questionnaires about your wellbeing at the beginning, during, and after you've used the workbook. You'll also complete short daily ratings on how you're feeling. After finishing the workbook, you'll have a one-to-one chat, lasting up to an hour, to share your thoughts and experiences about the workbook.
The study involves three main periods: a 1-2 week period before starting the workbook, the 4-6 weeks you spend using the workbook, and then a 3-4 week period after you've finished it. So, the total time you'd be involved is about 8-12 weeks.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS TrustVerified postcodeMaidstone, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is a 'guided self-help workbook'?
It's a book of activities and information you work through yourself, but with regular support and guidance from a trained professional.
What does 'wellbeing' mean in this study?
Wellbeing here refers to how you feel overall, including your mental health, your happiness, and your ability to cope with daily life.
Will my regular NHS care be affected if I join?
No, taking part in this study will not affect the usual care you receive from your mental health team.
Do I need to be good at writing to use the workbook?
You need to be able to read and write English, but it's about sharing your thoughts and feelings, not about perfect writing.
What is 'energy accounting'?
It's a way of understanding and managing your personal energy levels, learning what gives you energy and what drains it, to help prevent burnout.
How to find out more
Kirsten Mann
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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