My son is late diagnosed (age 23) but has struggled tremendously since graduating from HS. Has been burnt out for years - at home. Things seem to be progressively getting worse, depression, anxiety, OCD, etc. We live in rural area with not many supports, but are willing to travel to get the help he needs. He's super smart, kind, etc., but struggles so much with the mental illness side of autism. thank you.
Look into his medication profile. Read the side effects.
Fluoxetine long term can cause more problems. Barbiturates can cause compulsive gambling and other issues.
Take a look at the changes of the day and the schedule it drastically changes when they become adults it's almost shocking because these are routine type people so you have to keep them on another routine what you feel almost impossible.
My son doesn't have any behavior issues but it is being made to look like to behavioral problem when reality we have just discovered it's his medication. I would look for a really good advocate that believes in a balance of mental health medication and natural remedies.
For example we have learned that physical activity is better to treat ADHD than using the stimulus long term when we hit adult we found out that tachycardia was increasing yearly and no one said a word.
Sit down together and review medical records look at vitals look at weight look at symptoms and then look up the side effects of medication.
Autism Speaks
and whatever state you are in check the state autism society
Which States Are Most Supportive for Raising a Child with ...
https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-therapies
Autism Parenting Magazine
https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com › supportive-s... — We found that Colorado, Massachusetts, and New Jersey are the most supportive states overall. On the other end of the scale,
Colorado, Massachusetts, and New Jersey consistently rank as the top states for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and autism support
Adult Autism and Developmental Disorders Clinic
Johns Hopkins Medicine
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org › autism-dev-disabilities
If you are seeking only medication management, we can provide you with resources for this service. We accept Medical Assistance, Medicare
Pathfinders
Sorry for my late reply! I take Adderall, Abilify, Wellbutrin, and Zoloft. It's been an awesome combination for me :)
Thanks for sharing. He does not take any medications. This has been a real struggle, as he feels he wants to 'handle' things without medications - but he isn't really able to 'handle' things, and self-medicates with other not so great substances. May I ask which medications have helped for you? We really feel this is the area he needs to explore more, and be open to.
I have comorbid mental health diagnoses (OCD and anxiety) along with being AuDHD. I went through a rough patch when I was in my first year of college and the rituals OWNED me. I still went to school and worked at that time, and was able to push through. It was exhausting, though. Thankfully, over time and with wonderful medications, I barely notice the OCD anymore, and my anxiety, while it will always be there, is a lot more under control! Does your son take any medications?