Mental Health and University Students on the Autism Spectrum: a Literature Review

An increasing amount of evidence indicates that mental health conditions pose a significant challenge for post-secondary students on the autism spectrum. A review of the literature was conducted to bring greater awareness to the issue of mental health conditions of university students on the autism spectrum, to identify the impact of mental health conditions on university success, and to identify support services that can help students on the autism spectrum successfully complete their post-secondary education. Overall, 23 studies met inclusion criteria, spanning across the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, Belgium, China, and Japan. Data is reported according to three categories: the frequency and/or type of mental health condition experienced by students on the autism spectrum; the impact of mental health conditions on students; and effectiveness of supports for students with mental health conditions.