I write this petition not only as a concerned citizen but as someone who stands at the intersection of the social services sector and the neurodivergent community in Ontario. During my journey as a neurodivergent individual and presently while pursuing my Master of Social Work in Clinical Social Work Practice, Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health, I have personally experienced the severe gaps within our mental health system. These challenges are amplified when it comes to the provision of services catered towards conditions such as autism.

If you do not know this, but seven out of ten autistic people have multiple a mental health conditions, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, ADHD and many others. This increases much higher for gender-diverse neurodivergent individuals.

It is disheartening to see that the transition period for young adults with autism is marred with virtually no support available in terms of mental health care. This is a critical stage where mental health needs often escalate, yet the system fails to provide tailored and necessary support. For these individuals to grow and contribute as active members of society, a more inclusive, accessible, and customized mental health framework is indispensable. In Ontario, there is not enough Psychitrists to provide continued access when they turn into adults, all diagnosis and mental support is not covered by OHIP currently. While there is also the problem that it is near impossible to find mental health professionals that are training with intermix of all the conditions.

Thus, this petition calls on the Ontario government to expand healthcare coverage to ensure access to psychologists and psychiatrists trained in autism and mental health. Moreover, it is crucial to develop specialized and comprehensive training programs for mental health professionals on autism-specific interventions. Let's bridge this gap in our healthcare system and ensure that our community members get the help they deserve.

Remember, every signature brings us a step closer to improved mental health resources for those with autism in Ontario. Please sign and share this petition.

Iracema Rosa