Suicide prevention efforts in patients with autism may need to extend beyond crisis services to address broader social and structural factors, according to a large UK mixed-methods survey.

Researchers conducted a two-phase mixed-methods study to identify priorities for suicide prevention in patients with autism. In the second phase, 2,778 participants—including 2,463 people with autism and 315 supporters or allies—evaluated suicide prevention strategies generated during the first phase.

Participants frequently identified gaps in diagnostic pathways and support services as factors that may influence suicide risk. Many respondents reported that long waiting lists for autism assessments and limited postdiagnostic resources may leave patients without appropriate support during vulnerable periods.

Although some respondents identified crisis interventions such as helplines and emergency mental health services as urgent priorities, a larger proportion emphasized longer-term prevention strategies. These included improving support in schools, expanding access to diagnostic evaluation and postdiagnostic services, and addressing stigma and discrimination.

Across qualitative and quantitative responses, participants often described suicide risk within a broader context of social inequities and structural barriers rather than solely as a result of individual psychopathology. According to the researchers, this perspective suggests prevention strategies may need to extend beyond the mental health sector.

Participants also highlighted the importance of improving access to diagnostic assessments and postdiagnostic support. Respondents generally supported providing services to patients awaiting diagnostic evaluation, although views were more divided regarding support for individuals who self-identify as autistic without a formal diagnosis.

Another recurring theme involved community collaboration in prevention planning. Survey respondents widely supported co-design and co-production approaches, suggesting prevention policies and services may be more effective when developed with input from people with lived experience.

The researchers concluded that effective suicide prevention may require coordinated multisector approaches developed in partnership with the community. Future work, they noted, should translate these priorities into policies and interventions across health care, education, and social support systems.

Disclosures can be found in the study.

Source: eClinicalMedicine