To systematically synthesize evidence on adverse outcomes experienced by autistic people across mental health, physical health, and social domains, highlighting the need for a comprehensive synthesis.
Key Findings:
Autistic individuals face increased risks of anxiety, mood disorders, suicidality, and self-harm.
Physical health issues include obesity, epilepsy, gastrointestinal problems, and sleep disorders.
Social challenges encompass victimization, bullying, loneliness, relationship difficulties, and unemployment.
Quality of life is significantly reduced among autistic individuals.
Interpretation:
The synthesis highlights the multifaceted adverse outcomes faced by autistic individuals, emphasizing the need for integrated support across various life domains, including healthcare, education, and social services.
Limitations:
Evidence strength varied across outcomes, indicating inconsistencies in reporting, such as varying sample sizes and methodologies.
The review may not encompass all relevant studies due to the vast and diverse literature, potentially overlooking significant findings.
Conclusion:
A comprehensive understanding of the adverse outcomes experienced by autistic people is essential for informing holistic support strategies and advocating for systemic change, particularly in healthcare and social services.
