01/04/2024
Happy New Year!
We're wishing for growth for you and your families in 2024! Your thoughts, words, needs, wants, and concerns push us to be our best, and today we learned of an opportunity to bring more waves of change with your voices.
The National Institute of Mental Health, in collaboration with the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee, has a Request for Public Comments on Co-Occurring Conditions in Autism.
The Committee seeks public comment on the following questions related to the impact of co-occurring physical and mental health conditions:
1. What are the most significant challenges caused by co-occurring physical health conditions in autistic people? (Examples of co-occurring physical health conditions: gastrointestinal disorders, sleep disturbances, epilepsy, sensory and motor challenges)
2. What are the most significant challenges caused by co-occurring mental health conditions in autistic people? (Examples of mental health co-occurring conditions: depression, anxiety, aggressive or self-injurious behavior, suicidality)
3. What are the most significant challenges caused by other conditions that co-occur with autism, such as learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and communication disabilities?
4. What additional research is needed to help address co-occurring conditions for autistic people?
5. What could be improved in autism services and supports to help address co-occurring conditions for autistic people? (Examples: Equitable access to and accessibility of services, insurance coverage, service systems issues, patient-provider interactions)
6. What lasting impact has COVID–19 infection and illness had on co-occurring physical and/or mental health conditions for autistic people?
7. What lasting positive or negative impacts have societal changes due to the COVID–19 pandemic had on physical or mental health for autistic people? (Examples of societal changes: disruptions in services, increased remote work and school, increased use of telehealth, reduced in-person social interactions and obligations)
Feedback provided in this RFI may be used by the IACC to inform future activities and reports.
To submit a public comment, follow the link below. Your voice and lived experience matter and can make a difference! As the comments are public, it is encouraged to never share personal details :)
The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) coordinates all efforts within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) concerning autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
