Approx 2 min read
University Research Theme/s: Social change and equity, Healthy people, families and communities
Our research shows that Autistic people are three to five times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. In fact, one third of Autistic people have thoughts of suicide across their lifespan. These stark statistics highlight the urgent need for autism-informed care, however Autistic people encounter substantial barriers when seeking help.
The Suicide Prevention for Autism Neuro-affirming Toolkit (span.toolkit) is addressing this critical gap through the development of lived-experience led, neurodiversity-affirming training and resources for healthcare professionals.
Impact
In February 2026, we released the span.toolkit. This world-leading, evidence-based resource portal is a toolkit for healthcare professionals to better identify and support Autistic adults at risk of suicide. The toolkit includes educational and training videos, easy-to-read fact sheets, autism-adapted suicide screening and assessment instruments and safety plans. Training takes around two hours and screening a patient can take as little as 10 minutes. The free website includes OTARC led resources, including autism-modified screening and assessment tools for suicidal thoughts and behaviour (SIDAS-M; SAK-MI), a lived experience framework, policy submissions.
- The media release had excellent reach – >1.5 million in the first week
- Shared as a resource on:
- The Health Care for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities toolkit for Primary Care Providers website
- Maroondah City Council website.
- Incorporated into training at:
- the Black Dog Institute
- Autism and Executive Functioning programs at Geroge Mason University (Virginia, USA).
Supporters
Funding: Suicide Prevention Australia, Post-Doctoral Fellowship – Dr Claire Brown, OTARC.
Community partners: Yellow Ladybugs, Roses in the Ocean, Different Journeys, Amaze, Aspect
Health: Monash Health, Barwon Health
Research: OTARC, La Trobe University, Monash University, University of New South Wales, University of Nottingham, Deakin University, Bournemouth University, Australian National University
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
