Longitudinal Analysis of Mental Health in Autistic University Students Across an Academic Year

BACKGROUND: Autistic people have worse mental health (MH) than non-autistic people. This proof-of-concept study explored feasibility of longitudinal research with autistic university students, focusing on their MH and coping styles across an academic year. METHODS: Twenty-two students took part at all timepoints. They completed four rounds of online MH questionnaires. RESULTS: Over 80% of students were retained. They started the year with high levels of all MH issues, which remained stable across the year. Network Change analysis showed the connections between MH and coping style changed over time. CONCLUSIONS: Autistic students are engaged participants who are likely to take part in longitudinal research. While MH levels were stable, it may be that coping styles are a useful target for intervention.