Autism and grief

26/08/2025 37 min Temporada 5 Episodio 4
Autism and grief

Listen "Autism and grief"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode of a different brilliant, host Madeleine Jane Lobsey is joined by Jennifer Lowe, autism researcher and PhD candidate at La Trobe University’s Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, to explore a subject often avoided but deeply human: grief.Jennifer shares her lived experience alongside insights from her research into how Autistic people process grief and bereavement. Together, they discuss how grief extends beyond the death of a loved one, pet, or friend. For many Autistic people, the loss of routines, meaningful objects, or everyday familiarity can also evoke feelings of grief.Topics include:Defining grief in an Autistic contextAutistic experiences of bereavementAnticipatory grief and first experiences of lossObjects, routines, and the meaning of everyday lossesSupporting autistic people through griefStrategies for families, educators and professionalsReflections on wider cultural approaches to deathWhether you’re an Autistic adult, a parent or carer, or a professional supporting neurodivergent people, this episode offers both practical insights and moving lived experience.Please note: This episode discusses sensitive themes. If you experience distress, please seek support through Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the services below.Additional resources:Aspect’s self-compassion program: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/evidence-informed-guides-programs/aspaaBeyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/Headspace: https://headspace.org.au/Black Dog Institute: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/All rights reserved.