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A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Greensboro, NC

My eldest son just recently passed away. My middle son is 16 (high functioning, diagnosed with autism when he was 4) and seems to be coping okay with his brother's passing, but I feel like he's suppressing emotions. He hasn't really showed much outwardly emotion or grieving. Does anyone that has been through autism grief have any tips or advice? Thanks in advance.

November 20, 2025
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MyAutismTeam

How can you help your autistic child process grief after losing a sibling?

First, I'm deeply sorry for your loss. What you're observing with your 16-year-old son is not uncommon. Autistic individuals may process and express emotions differently, which doesn't mean they aren't feeling deeply.

Opening a channel of Show Full Answer

How can you help your autistic child process grief after losing a sibling?

First, I'm deeply sorry for your loss. What you're observing with your 16-year-old son is not uncommon. Autistic individuals may process and express emotions differently, which doesn't mean they aren't feeling deeply.

Opening a channel of communication is essential. Rather than waiting for him to come to you, gently ask how he's feeling about his brother's passing. The key is to listen without lecturing or trying to provide answers. Just asking lets him know it's safe to talk about his feelings, even if they're difficult or confusing.

He may not show grief in expected ways. Some autistic individuals need more time to process emotions internally before they can express them outwardly. Others may struggle to identify or articulate what they're feeling.

Consider these approaches:
- Create regular, low-pressure opportunities to talk
- Accept that his grief may look different than yours
- Watch for changes in behavior, sleep, appetite, or routine that might signal internal struggle
- Respect his processing style while staying available

You might also want to work with a therapist experienced in autism who can help him develop tools to understand and express his emotions around this loss.

November 20, 2025
A MyAutismTeam Member

Years ago my son roommate passaway and we went to a greif group

Harriet

November 22, 2025
A MyAutismTeam Member

Thank you ❤️

November 20, 2025
A MyAutismTeam Member

Sorry for your loss. Counseling for your son may be helpful. My son's team mentioned potential anxiety issues. He even casually talked about being afraid to the school psychologist while coloring pictures. Surprised me bc he never mentions that. Prayers for all of you during this time.

November 20, 2025
A MyAutismTeam Member

Sorry to hear about your oldest

How to support an autistic person who is grieving
Be clear and direct: Explain death in simple, literal terms, avoiding euphemisms like "passed away" or "gone to sleep".
Provide a safe space: Allow for different ways of grieving. Respect that the person may need quiet, private space, and that their needs may be different from others.
Help with emotional expression: Use tools like visual aids, a "feelings thermometer," or an "emotion wheel" to help the person identify and communicate their emotions. "Comic strip conversations" can also be helpful for discussion.
Anticipate the disruption: Acknowledge that grief is a major disruption to routine and structure. Help the person prepare for changes by providing clear explanations and information.
Understand delayed reactions: Be aware that behaviors might appear much later and may be connected to the grief, even if the link isn't obvious.
Offer practical help: Assist with navigating social situations like funerals by discussing the process beforehand and identifying quiet spaces where the person can go if needed.
Encourage open communication: Find out how the individual copes and what helps them process their feelings, and work with them to create supportive coping strategies.
Seek professional help: Consider seeking support from therapists who are knowledgeable about both grief and autism.

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/t...

https://www.autismspeaks.org/grief-and-bereavem...

Bereavement - a guide for professionals
Bereavement - a guide for professionals
November 20, 2025

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A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
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