Background to the Research
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent challenges with social communication and relationships, alongside restricted or repetitive interests and behaviours. Its reported prevalence has increased over recent decades, largely due to improved and broadened diagnostic practices (Shaw, 2025). Although a diagnosis can facilitate access to educational, healthcare and social supports, a growing body of research shows that autistic children and adolescents experience much higher rates of co-occurring mental health difficulties (Kerns et al., 2020). Evidence consistently demonstrates elevated levels of anxiety, depression, behavioural problems and self-harm compared with non-autistic peers. Some estimates suggest that most autistic individuals have at least one co-occurring mental health condition.
However, most existing studies are cross-sectional, limiting our understanding of how these difficulties develop over time and what factors contribute to them. By comparing outcomes over time between autistic and non-autistic children and young people, the study addresses key gaps in the current evidence base. The findings will clarify when mental health inequalities emerge and how large they are, supporting service planning and identifying critical windows for intervention within Irish health and education systems.
Aims
The aim of the research is to examine the impact of a diagnosis of autism on mental health outcomes for children and young people.
Hypothesis
Children and young people with autism will be at greater risk of poor mental health outcomes compared to children and young people without autism.