Short, practical workshop found to improve parents’ mental health in just two weeks
Sydney, NSW - A short, two-hour workshop is helping parents of Autistic children feel less overwhelmed and more supported, with new research from the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) showing that even small shifts in self-compassion can significantly improve mental health.
The study found that parents who took part in a brief online self-compassion workshop reported reduced depressive symptoms and improved psychological wellbeing within just two weeks.
The workshop focuses on simple, practical strategies that can be used in everyday moments, without adding extra pressure to already busy lives.
Lead researcher Dr Ru Ying Cai said the findings highlight just how important it is to support parents, not just children, in autism care.
“Parents of Autistic children often give so much of themselves that their own wellbeing slips to the bottom of the list,” said Dr Cai.
“What we found is that even a short, accessible workshop can help parents develop a kinder inner voice. That doesn’t just support their mental health, it can change the tone of everyday moments at home.”
In partnership with leading compassion researcher, Associate Professor James Kirby from the University of Queensland, ARCAP piloted the workshop with 45 parents, introducing techniques such as:
- slowing down breathing during stressful moments
- shifting to a more supportive internal voice
- finding small “micro-moments” of calm throughout the day
These are practical tools that can be used while making a cup of tea, waiting in the car, or navigating a challenging moment with a child.
Parents who completed the workshop reported:
- improved wellbeing
- reduced depressive symptoms
- greater self-reassurance and less self-criticism
Many participants described the experience as “ground-breaking,” particularly in recognising how critical they had been toward themselves.
Mothers are often the primary caregivers for Autistic children and can carry a significant mental and emotional load, often without adequate support.
Aspect CEO Jacqui Borland said this research is an important reminder that supporting families is central to supporting Autistic children.
“We know that many parents are doing everything they can to support their child, often at the expense of their own wellbeing,” said Ms Borland.
“Helping parents build self-compassion isn’t about asking them to do more, but giving them permission to be kinder to themselves in moments that are already hard.”
A message for Mother’s Day
This Mother’s Day, Aspect is encouraging parents to extend the same understanding and care to themselves that they show their children every day.
Even small shifts, like pausing, softening self-talk, or taking a moment to reset, can make a meaningful difference over time.
Parents and carers can access practical strategies and learn more about the research at:
https://www.aspect.org.au/parent-self-compassion
For enquiries:
Karen Keech karen@establishedpr.com.au 0411 052 408
About Aspect
Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) is one of Australia’s largest autism-specific service providers, with one of the world’s most extensive autism-specific educational programs. Celebrating 60 years in 2026, we are a not-for-profit organisation working in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum to co-develop, co-produce and co-deliver supports and services that are individualised, goal driven and grounded in evidence-based practices.
The Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) the research arm of Aspect. We conduct participatory research that is translated into respectful, proven practices to positively impact the lives of Autistic people, their families and carers.
