This study is being conducted by a team of researchers across Canada with expertise in autism spectrum disorder and the mental health concerns that often co-occur alongside autism. We know that individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders are impacted far beyond their primary diagnosis, so our research encompasses the broad range of complex issues that individuals and their families face.
We are now living in times that are unlike anything we have experienced before, which presents families with unique challenges. That is why we created this study. Above anything else, we would like to check in with you and see how you are doing!
The COVID-19 pandemic is a stressful time for everyone, and it may be especially stressful for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and their families. Regular routines may be disrupted, finances may be tight and uncertain, and supports and services that families may have otherwise been accessing (e.g., therapies, respite, counselling, support groups and other social networks) may be harder to reach. When these changes happen, the behavioural and emotional challenges that often occur in autistic children can become more problematic – adding even further to caregiver stress levels.
This is a brand-new research study, launched June 9th, 2020. The aim of this study is to understand the impact of COVID-19 on the lives of autistic individuals and their families. What we learn from this study will help us identify the current needs and priorities of families during the pandemic. We would also like to know how we can support families of children with autism who are already vulnerable to stress and mental health concerns. This study will lay the groundwork for future research looking at supports and services that can help families now and post-quarantine.
We are looking for Canadian caregivers of individuals of any age with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to complete an online survey. The survey will take about 15-30 minutes to complete and will ask questions about disruptions in your family’s life as a result of COVID-19 (e.g. whether anyone in your family has had COVID-19, changes to employment, financial hardship), your own perceived stress, mental health, well-being and coping, and how you think your child is doing in terms of mental health and coping.
PARTICIPATE BY TAKING THE SURVEY