Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-2025

Identifier

PMCID: PMC12331320

Abstract

One in six youth has a neurodevelopmental disability (NDD), and autism diagnostic rates continue to rise. Before and after a diagnosis, families need trusted sources of guidance to navigate co-occurring medical and psychological conditions, and to manage unique stressors including transition to adulthood. However, medical professionals from all specialty areas struggle to identify resources to support the complex psychosocial and healthcare needs of these patients and their families. This primer on psychosocial supports for youth with autism will explore the major mental and physical health stressors faced by affected youth and families, and discuss opportunities for primary care and other providers to provide resources and empower their patients. Through awareness of key challenges and resources, non-specialist providers can integrate autism-specific supports into their regular practice. These same approaches will also allow providers to offer more holistic care for the broader NDD patient community as well.

Journal Title

Missouri medicine

Volume

122

Issue

4

First Page

291

Last Page

296

MeSH Keywords

Humans; Autistic Disorder; Adolescent; Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Mental Health; Child; Social Support; Primary Health Care

PubMed ID

40787020

Keywords

Autistic Disorder; Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Mental Health; Social Support; Primary Health Care

Comments

Statement regarding Missouri Medicine: The Journal of the Missouri State Medical Association: All issues are open-access. Entire journals will open in a digital journal format in a new window. All articles are owned by copyright Missouri State Medical Association. Publisher's Link: https://www.msma.org/Missouri-Medicine-Library

Download

Share

COinS