Find a therapist to help with autism

Well-being was ranked above communication, self-care, and academics.

Autistic adults report lower well-being than other autism community groups.

Many support systems prioritize well-being, but autistic individuals often don't feel it.

Measuring well-being is essential if we want it to become a meaningful outcome.

For years, conversations about autism support have focused on helping autistic individuals develop skills. We measure communication goals, academic achievement, daily living skills, and behavioral outcomes. These are important markers of growth. But a question has lingered beneath the surface: What if we're measuring many things that matter while overlooking what matters most?

A recent national survey commissioned by Proof Positive and conducted by Pathfinder Research sought to better understand well-being across the autism community. More than 1,000 autistic individuals, caregivers, educators, and service providers participated. The findings revealed overwhelming agreement on one point: well-being is essential.

Ninety-four percent of respondents said prioritizing the personal well-being of autistic individuals is either "very important" or "absolutely essential" within autism services and supports. No respondent described well-being as unimportant. That level of agreement is remarkable. Yet perhaps the most important finding was not the consensus itself. It was the disconnect hidden beneath it.

Most caregivers, educators, and service providers believe they are prioritizing well-being. In fact, 89 percent reported that well-being is a central focus or high priority in their work with autistic individuals. But when autistic individuals were asked the same question from their perspective, only........

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