A randomized controlled trial with 63 autistic adults across Canada found that a 6-week manualized, autistic-informed, group-based virtual mindfulness intervention reduced overall distress and stress, and improved self-compassion, mindfulness, and mental wellbeing, with gains maintained at an 8-week follow-up. The waitlist control group showed no changes. Neither group reported changes in autistic community connectedness or interoceptive sensitivity. The findings support virtual delivery of autistic-informed mindfulness programs.
Autistic adults generally view psychedelics positively, with 77.8% willing to try them and 69.7% reporting past use, most commonly psilocybin mushrooms. Higher doses and highly meaningful experiences correlated with longer-lasting mental health improvements. Barriers included legal concerns, health risks, and logistical challenges. Participants with prior experience reported greater perceived knowledge and lower perceived risks. The findings highlight the need for education, policy reform, and inclusive research practices, though results should be interpreted cautiously as the sample may not represent the broader autistic population.