Evaluating a workbook to promote autistic wellbeing (V1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Evaluating the use of a guided self-help workbook to promote wellbeing for autistic adults: A mixed-methods multiple single-case study
IRAS ID
364129
Contact name
Kirsten Mann
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Canterbury Christ Church University
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 30 days
Research summary
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people communicate, experience the world, and relate to others. Many autistic adults also experience mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Some may experience 'burnout', a state of deep exhaustion and loss of coping ability. These difficulties can result from long-term stress, 'masking' (hiding autistic traits to fit in), and lack of understanding or support.
Although some psychological therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help, they are not always designed with the needs of autistic people in mind. In the NHS, post-diagnostic support for autistic adults is limited, often consisting only of information or signposting. This study aims to explore whether a new guided self-help wellbeing workbook designed specifically for autistic adults is feasible and acceptable, and to get an initial impression of its helpfulness in improving wellbeing.
The workbook was developed by Dr Dan Brown, a senior therapist within the NHS, in consultation with autistic people. It focuses on helping people to understand autism and manage their energy levels (including identifying and adapting to sensory needs), and to plan for wellbeing using personalised strategies. The aim is to help autistic adults improve self-understanding, communicate their needs, and enhance wellbeing in everyday life.
The study will recruit 8–10 autistic adults from community-based mental health teams in Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust. Participants will complete the workbook over four to six sessions, supported by a trained clinician. Researchers will use questionnaires, daily wellbeing ratings, and interviews to find out whether participants find the workbook useful and easy to use. Participants will also be asked how the workbook could be improved.
If successful, the study could lead to larger scale research evaluating the effectiveness of the workbook.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/NW/0034
Date of REC Opinion
16 Feb 2026
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion