- TRIGGER WARNING-This podcast will discuss autism, suicide, mental health, and wellness, among other topics, with autistic individuals and different professionals with the goal of unmasking stereotypes, increasing awareness, advocating for mental health and wellness, and attempting to shatter the stigmas of these topics through conversation and personal experience. The Autism Foundation of Oklahoma (AFO), www.autismfoundationok.org, @AutismfoundationOK, strives to improve the lives of Oklahomans (and others) with autism across the lifespan. According to The National Institute of Mental Health, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. People with ASD often have: • Difficulty with communication and interaction with other people • Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors • Symptoms that affect their ability to function in school, work, and other areas of life Autism is known as a “spectrum” disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience. People of all genders, races, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds can be diagnosed with ASD. Although ASD can be a lifelong disorder, treatments, and services can improve a person’s symptoms and daily functioning. This podcast will discuss autism, suicide awareness and prevention, mental health, wellness, and other important topics with autistic people and professionals. Some of the risks factors for suicide in autistic people are: Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions Masking Autistic Burnout Female Lack of Social Support (Isolation) Late Diagnosis