Psychosocial Supports for the Physical and Mental Health of Youth with Autism and Other Neurodevelopmental Disabilities.

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.