disability
Is autism a disorder?
Is autism a disorder? This has been a point of contention for a long time. In this article, David explores this question through his own experience.
David Gray-Hammond
Autism
CAMHS: "Your child is Anxious because they're Autistic"
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) have repeatedly failed Autistic children, particularly through diagnostic overshadowing. This practice involves attributing symptoms to autism, denying necessary support, exacerbating trauma, and contributing to elevated suicide risks. Families als
Neurodiversity
CAMHS: A legacy of pain
As I write this, our petition to try and trigger positive change in CAMHS for the way the treat Autistic children sits at around 212,000 signatures. That is not far off of a quarter of a million people for whom their systemic failures are more than a story or
Autistic Wellbeing
Interoception and Autism: A Hidden Link to Substance Use?
Autism and substance use is an area that received little discussion in wider society. In my own experience, their is an assumption that Autistic people are less likely to use drugs, however growing bodies of research are beginning to show what I have said for many year; substance use is
Trauma
CAMHS and the children who "won't engage"
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are notorious for failing to support Autistic children and young people. I have recently explored that Autistic families have a particularly difficult time accessing their services. One of the most common reactions from CAMHS professionals working with Autistic service users is that the
Neurodiversity
Challenging Mental Health Awareness Week for Autistic People
Mental Health Awareness Week leaves Autistic people feeling unheard and ignored. Despite years of advocating for better mental health support, Autistic individuals still face systemic barriers. This week should be more than just raising awareness – it's time to demand systemic change and meaningful
Neurodiversity
CAMHS: The HEARTBREAKING Reality for Autistic Families
Autistic families face significant barriers when seeking support from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), with only 10% of patients being Autistic despite 70% of Autistic children experiencing mental health issues. The service lacks accessibility, attentiveness, and understanding of
General Wellbeing
Autistic Lives Lost: Is CAMHS to Blame?
This article highlights the failure of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in providing appropriate support to Autistic children and young people, leading to devastating outcomes. The lack of resources, staff competence, and understanding of neurodivergent experiences contribute to t
Autism
Autistic burnout: How do you recover?
Autistic burnout is a unique struggle for each individual, impacting cognitive and physical resources. Recovery involves understanding personal needs, setting protective boundaries, avoiding excessive limitations, and allowing time for focused activities. Celebrating small victories and seeking ment
Neurodiversity
CAMHS and the loss of Jennifer ('Jen') Chalkley
The following article is a response to the findings that failures by Surrey and Borders Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) contributed to the death of a 17 yeard old Autistic and ADHD person.
disability
The CAMHS Reports 2024 On The Matter of Access
Is CAMHS Accessible? What do the people who have tried to access it have to say? All of this and more is answered in this article.
Mental Health Treatment Rights
4 ways CAMHS failed me as an autistic teen
The first report on Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) reveals troubling issues with understanding and supporting Autistic individuals. The author's personal experience highlights the long-winded referral system, dismissive psychiatrists, pressure for medication, and blame for schoo