Evidence-informed resources

Our research informs the design of guides and programs that improve the lives of Autistic people.

Mental health and well-being

Self compassion

Self-compassion is being kind and gentle to ourselves. Using the findings from our pioneering self-compassion research, we have worked with Autistic advisors to develop the Aspect Self-compassion Program for Autistic Adults (ASPAA). ASPAA is an online program designed to help Autistic adults build self-compassion skills, regulate emotions, and boost mental well-being. There are two versions of ASPAA – one for Autistic adults and another for clinicians.

Aspect Self-Compassion Program for Autistic Adults (ASPAA)

Would you like to learn how to be kinder toward yourself? We’ve developed the first online self-guided self-compassion program for Autistic adults.

Aspect Self-compassion Program for Autistic Adults (Clinician version)

The clinician version (A$49) helps mental health professionals support Autistic clients to become more self-compassionate.

Cultivating self-compassion as a parent of an Autistic child

This guide, based on parents’ reflections from a self-compassion workshop, offers practical tips for nurturing kindness toward yourself.

Loneliness

Our research findings validate a new loneliness measurement tool that is more accessible and easier to use, generates more accurate and reliable data and can be used across settings to support loneliness interventions for diverse groups.

UCLA Loneliness Scale – Modified

This interactive scale can help research and support services better understand and assist Autistic adults struggling with loneliness.

Pregnancy, parenting and family life

Pregnancy and parenthood hub

Built on research and the lived experience of Autistic people, the Aspect Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub provides valuable perinatal insights and resources for Autistic people and healthcare professionals.

Cultivating self-compassion as a parent of an Autistic child

This guide, based on parents’ reflections from a self-compassion workshop, offers practical tips for nurturing kindness toward yourself.

Identity, disclosure and inclusion

Disclosure

Autism disclosure is when you consider telling someone that you are Autistic. Using findings from our disclosure studies we have designed resource guides aimed at making the disclosure process more positive and successful for Autistic people navigating this process and to inform those who support them.

Autism disclosure – a guide for Autistic people

Whether or not to disclose you are Autistic is your decision. This guide may assist Autistic people to make informed decisions about whether or not to disclose.

Autism disclosure a guide for non Autistic people March 2024 1 Page 1

Autism disclosure – creating inclusive communities

This guide aims to assist people and communities in creating spaces where Autistic individuals feel safe and supported, whether they disclose being Autistic or not.

Disclosure opportunities resource guide for Autistic people Easy English3

Autism disclosure – a guide for Autistic people (Easy English)

This Easy English guide may assist Autistic people to make informed decisions about whether or not to disclose in their own lives.

Relationships

Tips for Autistic adults using dating apps

Dating apps can create real opportunities to meet people, but they can also be challenging. These tips, informed by our research, are designed to help you use apps in ways that feel safer, less stressful, and more effective.

Professionals and service providers

Autism disclosure – creating inclusive communities

This guide aims to assist people and communities in creating spaces where Autistic individuals feel safe and supported, whether they disclose being Autistic or not.

Interactions with Autistic people: A guide for Australian police

Developed using our research and informed by best practice approaches, our 12-page guide supports Australian police to improve communication, recognise signs of autism, and ensure respectful, safe and effective engagement.

Accessible eye care for Autistic people guide for vision professionals 1

Accessible eye care for Autistic people: a practical guide for vision professionals

Based on input from nearly 400 Autistic people, families and eye care professionals, we’ve developed a free eye care guide for vision professionals.

UCLA Loneliness Scale – Modified

This interactive scale can help research and support services better understand and assist Autistic adults struggling with loneliness.

Pregnancy and parenthood hub

Built on research and the lived experience of Autistic people, the Aspect Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub provides valuable perinatal insights and resources for Autistic people and healthcare professionals.

The Zones of Regulation teacher's guide

This teacher's guide provides advice and ideas for modifying The Zones of Regulation for use in classes with Autistic students.

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