Purpose The negative effects of loneliness and isolation on mental health and wellbeing on the neurotypical population are well documented. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the effects of isolation on the mental health and wellbeing of autistic adults who were separated from friends and family for an extended period. Design/methodology/approach Semi-structured interviews were conducted shortly after the lifting of the third UK lockdown of the Covid-19 pandemic with a sample of 7 people (mean age, 35) formally diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Findings The study explored effects stemming from the absence of social interaction. Thematic analysis led to the creation of three themes: The first, “Context affects perception of isolation: I’m going to continue on with my life as much as I possibly can” shows a negative impact on wellbeing, perceived through the filter of larger issues resulting from lockdown and the necessity of isolation. The second, “Being alone can be comfortable: Lockdown has been good for me” discusses the mental health benefits of isolation and participants feeling of being “primed” for that isolation. The third, “Challenges from isolation: ‘Changing routine’” explores the changes people made while isolated, with a focus on coping strategies and communication. Originality/value Findings reveal the importance of supporting autistic adults to maintain social contact during and after isolation and contradict research suggesting autistic people are not motivated to seek social interaction.

Joseph Collins

Dale Metcalfe

Advances in Autism

Advances in Autism is unique in its focus on the health and care aspects and outcomes for people with autism.    The journal's content is international in focus and peer-reviewed. It includes the following:    research-based articles  evidence-based clinical and support articles  articles on policy and advances in services where these can be internationally applied.  Key areas of research covered include:    clinical developments  people's experience through qualitative research  policy debates and outcomes  inclusion and quality of life  developmental issues  population and epidemiological studies  services developments  evidence-based reviews of key practice issues.

Advances in Autism is unique in its focus on the health and care aspects and outcomes for individuals with autism. The journal's content is international in scope and peer-reviewed. It includes research-based articles, evidence-based clinical and support articles, and articles on policy and service advancements that can be applied internationally. Key areas of research covered include clinical developments, individuals' experiences through qualitative research, policy debates and outcomes, inclusion and quality of life, developmental issues, population and epidemiological studies, service developments, and evidence-based reviews of key practice issues.

《Advances in Autism》专注于自闭症患者的健康和护理方面及其结果，具有独特性。该期刊的内容具有国际视野，并经过同行评审。包括以下内容：基于研究的文章、循证临床和支持文章、政策及服务进展的文章，这些内容具有国际适用性。研究的关键领域包括：临床发展、通过定性研究了解人们的经历、政策辩论及其结果、包容性与生活质量、发展问题、人口和流行病学研究、服务发展、关键实践问题的循证评审。

Mental health, wellbeing and coping strategies of autistic adults during isolation

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Journal Info

Category	Quartile
PSYCHOLOGY, DEVELOPMENTAL	4