Autism in the Teen Years: What to Expect and How to Help
Adolescence is a transformative and sometimes turbulent time for most young ones. For autistic teenagers, the teen years can bring additional challenges and opportunities. In this week’s Let’s All Talk Mental Health session, we were joined by Dr Rebekah Easton, Clinical Psychologist and Co-Founder of Well Rooted Wellbeing, who shared her expertise on understanding and supporting autistic teens.
Recognising Signs of Autism in Adolescence
Some autistic traits become more pronounced during the teen years, while others remain subtle. Dr. Easton outlined several signs that may appear during this stage:
Subtle Signs
Differences in social communication, such as gestures that may feel less fluid or intuitive.
Creativity rooted in specific interests or passions rather than broad, original ideation.
More Obvious Signs
Executive functioning challenges - for example, difficulty switching between tasks or managing working memory.
Social overwhelm or confusion in fast-paced group settings.
Hand gestures to help them self-regulate.
Importantly, Dr. Easton noted that many teens mask their struggles well, making supportive, observant adults all the more essential.
The Power of Diagnosis
Diagnosis can be a turning point, not a label, but a lens for understanding. For autistic teens, a formal diagnosis often:
Helps them make sense of why they might feel “different.”
Validates their experiences and reduces self-judgement or confusion.
Connects them with peers who share similar neurotypes.
Highlights strengths and opens doors to tailored support for school, home, and future planning.
Knowledge, Dr. Easton stressed, is empowering - for teens and families alike.
Tailored Support: There Is No “One-Size-Fits-All”
Dr. Easton’s central message was clear: Every autistic teenager is unique, and support should reflect that.
Whether it’s individual therapy, family sessions, or working closely with schools, the most effective approach is one that is flexible and shaped around the young person’s strengths, needs, and environment.
Dr. Easton emphasised the importance of collaborating with parents, who are the experts in their child’s world. Creative problem-solving as opposed to rigid intervention models can often lead to the most meaningful progress.
Supporting Emotional and Sensory Needs
Emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and low mood are common experiences for autistic teenagers. Dr. Easton encouraged parents to look beyond behaviour and explore underlying sensory needs.
Key Support Strategies
Sensory assessments by a sensory integrated trained occupational therapist to understand what soothes or overwhelms the young person.
Breathing strategies, such as box breathing, that help ground the body and regulate anxiety.
Quality time and nurturing connection, which strengthen the parent-child relationship and create a safe space for teens to share what they’re going through.
Navigating Transitions and Future Worries
Transitions including moving schools, choosing GCSEs, or stepping into college can all represent challenges for autistic teens. Dr. Easton encouraged parents to normalise anxieties around any process of change.
Supporting teens through transition involves:
Encouraging them to voice concerns without minimising them.
Building predictability and structure where possible.
Reducing opportunities that generally overwhelm, but not avoiding them altogether (think small steps).
Reinforcing safety, competence, and confidence to help them face new environments.
Accessing Support and Building Community
Support can vary significantly depending on location and resources. Dr. Easton encouraged families to:
Explore Educational Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) if appropriate.
Seek out autistic-positive support networks.
Connect with other parents for shared wisdom and emotional support.
Advocate persistently; trust your instincts about what your child needs.
Final Thoughts
Supporting autistic teens is a journey that requires patience, creativity, and collaboration. As Dr. Easton reminded us, parents know their children best. So, with the right insights and resources, families can help their autistic teenagers build resilience and thrive.