Understanding mental health care for autistic adults
Official title: Mental health hospitalizations and follow-up care in autistic adults
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-10742562 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at the mental health struggles of autistic adults, especially when they need hospital care and support afterward, to find out what makes it hard for them to get the help they need during tough times, with the goal of making mental health services better for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $151,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R03MH132034-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10742562 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are autistic adults who have experienced mental health issues or hospitalizations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as autistic or who have not faced mental health challenges may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mental health challenges faced by autistic adults, particularly focusing on their experiences with hospitalizations and follow-up care. It aims to identify the unique barriers these individuals encounter in accessing effective mental health services, especially during crises. By examining the complexities of care delivery, the research seeks to improve the quality of mental health support for autistic adults, ensuring they receive appropriate treatment tailored to their needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health care strategies that enhance the well-being of autistic adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that tailored mental health interventions can significantly improve outcomes for autistic individuals, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rast, Jessica Emmalee — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Rast, Jessica Emmalee
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.