Mental Health
Mental Health conditions are common and are found in children without neurodevelopmental conditions. Mental Health conditions are even more common in children with neurodevelopmental conditions and neurodisability. Details of the research projects we are undertaking can be found below:
The Team
Our Studies around Mental Health
ASC-UK
This project is about engaging adults on the autism spectrum and their relatives in research. It is a research programme about the life experiences of adults on the autism spectrum and their relatives/carers.
Daslne
Daslne is the Database of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Living in the North East. Its aim is to provide accurate information about children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) living in North East England.
Identifying Targets to Prevent Suicide in Autism: A Psychological Autopsy Study
This project aims to establish the true rate of autism in UK suicides, and understand whether autistic individuals experience unique risk factors for suicide compared to the general population. Results will be used to co-design a suicide prevention strategy in partnership with a steering group of autistic people who have attempted suicide.
Managing Anxiety in WS
This project focuses on the development of an intervention package to address anxiety experienced by children with Williams Syndrome. A parent mediated group intervention in under development (Billy’s Feelings Toolbox©).
Methods of Diagnosis for ASC in Adults
The study will examine current methods of diagnosing autism spectrum conditions in adults and review the evidence for the measures. In addition, a new diagnostic interview for ASC in adults will be developed and piloted.
PAT-A
In this study, we will conduct a national autism and anxiety survey, gathering the views of autistic people and professionals. Using this information, we will adapt current NHS anxiety treatments to make them ‘fit for purpose’ for use with autistic adults and test their efficacy in a randomised control trial.
The Transition Programme
Transition is a 5-year Programme of research looking at how health services can contribute most effectively to the successful transition of young people with complex health needs from childhood to adulthood.
Recently Completed Studies
CUES
This project focused on the development of an intervention package to address anxiety relating to uncertainty experienced by autistic children. A parent mediated group intervention was developed (Coping with Uncertainty in Everyday Situations CUES©)during the study.
Measuring Anxiety in ASD
This project focused on the devlopment of an assessment tool to measure anxiety in autistic children. A self and parent report questionnaire, the Anxiety Scale for Children - ASD (ASC-ASD©), was developed during the study.