Teens with autism often struggle with social communication. This immediately increases the chance that they will struggle with depressive symptoms. These depressive symptoms are seen to increase even more if another factor is added to the equation- bullies. Teens with autism that are also being bullied are likely to display symptoms of depression.
Bullying can have negative effects on anyone’s mental health. Young people with social communication difficulties and other autistic traits become particularly vulnerable. Research has shown that bullying rather than genetic differences drives the increase in depressive symptoms among the autistic population. By identifying bullying as a contributing factor to depression in autistic adolescents, we have achieved the first step in addressing and hopefully reducing the issue.
Give Bullying the Goodbye
Getting rid of bullying all together is an impossible task. In fact, even taking baby steps can be difficult. Here are some small and effective starting steps you can take to prevent bullying in your child’s life:
- Help kids understand bullying. Talk about what bullying is and how to stand up to it safely. Also, tell kids bullying is unacceptable. Make sure kids know how to get help and who is there to help.
- Keep the lines of communication open. Check in with kids often. Listen to them. Know their friends, ask about school, and understand their concerns.
- Encourage kids to do what they love. Special activities, interests, and hobbies can boost confidence, help kids make friends, and protect them from bullying behavior.
- Model how to treat others with kindness and respect. Kids look up to adults for guidance. You should set the example on how to treat others with kindness and respect.
Discover Seven Stars
Discover Seven Stars is a residential treatment center for teens ages 13-17 who struggle with neurodevelopmental disorders. This treatment center focuses on academics, outdoor adventure therapy, skill building and positive psychology in order to build confidence and skills of struggling students. Students leave this program feeling more self-aware and equipped with the skills they need to live happy, healthy lives. We can help your family today!
Contact us at 844-601-1167
Since 2003, Dr. Gordon Day has passionately helped young people with a wide range of family, emotional, social, neurodevelopmental and behavioral problems. Gordon’s mission has been to help people find their strengths and their own passion for living a full and rewarding life. He is particularly sensitive to the pressures, frustrations and disappointments that adolescents face that can sometimes cause them and their loved ones to want to withdraw and throw their hands up in despair.
Dr. Day knows that you really have to understand where a student is coming from and understand their patterns of strengths and needs. When we truly know an individual and their struggles, only then can we truly help.
Dr. Day has pioneered the use of outdoor therapy activities and outdoor living as a dynamic and effective therapeutic tool for learning, confidence building and skill building. His programs provide effective, supportive and encouraging environments that help students find their strengths and power.
