Emotional Wellbeing

Waiting for an autism assessment can bring up lots of feelings. You and your child might feel:

  • Hopeful
  • Worried
  • Frustrated
  • Overwhelmed


All of these feelings are okay. There is no right or wrong way to feel.

 


Helping Your Child Feel Okay

Children waiting for an autism assessment might:

  • Feel like they don’t fit in
  • Find it hard to understand what’s going on
  • Struggle with big feelings or behaviour

 

You might notice:

  • Meltdowns or shutting down
  • Anxiety or trouble saying how they feel
  • A strong need for routine or sameness
  • Sensory issues (like noise or touch)
  • Difficulties with friends or social situations

 

 

Things that can help

  • Keep routines clear: use pictures or simple reminders to show what’s happening next.
  • Make a calm space: a quiet, comfy place to relax. Somewhere quiet with low lighting or soft textures they can retreat to when needed. You could involve them in this, such as building a den made from blankets.
  • Talk while doing something: side-by-side chats (like during a walk or activity) can feel easier than face-to-face.
  • Say their feelings are okay: this can help them to feel understood. Try saying: “I can see this is hard. It’s okay to feel that way.”

 

 

Looking after yourself

Caring for your child while waiting can be hard. You might feel:

  • Tired
  • Guilty
  • Sad
  • Like you’re not doing enough

These feelings mean you care. You are not alone.

 


Things that can help you

  • Breathing exercises: calming your body down with a short breathing practice can signal a sense of safety to your brain, helping you to feel more relaxed and able to manage your feelings overall. Try “box breathing”:
    Breathe in for 4 seconds; hold for 4; breathe out for 4; hold for 4
  • Notice small wins: even tiny, good moments count. Noticing them helps shift your attention to what is working, even during tough times.
  • Be kind to yourself: talk to yourself like you would talk to a friend.
  • Talk to someone: it’s okay to ask for help. Talk to someone you trust or join a support group.

 

 

Where to get support

 

 

What to do in a crisis

If things feel unsafe or too much:

  • Call 999 if someone is in danger or can’t stay safe.
  • Call the Crisis Team (24/7) if your child needs urgent mental health help: 0300 300 0099 (press 1).
  • For emotional support:
    • Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
    • SHOUT: Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 (free, 24/7)
    • YoungMinds Parent Helpline: 0808 802 5544

Our patients and their carers and families are the reason we're here, so we want to hear your views about the Trust and our services.