Welcome to Thriving Together, your go-to source for timely information, resources and support on the autism journey, sponsored by Metro Parent and Henry Ford Health. 

In this newsletter, we ask the question: Is Your Teen’s Anxiety Hiding Behind Autism? Experts at Henry Ford Health offer effective strategies, resources and more.

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Is Your Teen’s Anxiety Hiding Behind Autism?

When a teen with autism starts showing more meltdowns, mood swings or withdrawal, parents may assume it’s just part of autism. 

But according to Dr. Melissa Hendriks, a child and adolescent psychiatrist with Henry Ford Health, anxiety is often the hidden cause.

“With autism, having comorbidity is often the rule rather than the exception,” she says. “Anxiety is a very common presenting problem — but it may not look the way it does in neurotypical teens.”

Instead of expressing worry out loud, teens with autism might show their anxiety through:

• Sensory overload or shutdowns
• Increased repetitive behaviors
• Headaches, stomachaches or appetite changes
• Trouble with transitions or new routines

“People might assume, well, that’s just autism or that’s defiance,” says Dr. Hendriks. “But it could be anxiety — especially if the behavior shows up around changes in routine or when expectations shift.”

So how can you help? Dr. Hendriks recommends:

• Validating emotions (“I can see you’re frustrated”)
• Using open-ended questions
• Avoiding phrases like “calm down” or “there’s nothing to worry about” 

And if your teen is struggling, reach out — starting with your pediatrician.

“You don’t need all the answers — just a willingness to listen, learn and keep showing up,” says Dr. Hendriks. “That alone can mean everything.”

There's more to know! Read more about teens with autism having anxiety. Here’s What Local Experts Say at Metro Parent’s Your Top Kids Health Questions — Answered. 

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Resources: organizations, events and more

Autism Alliance of Michigan

Help, hope and answers, including AAoM’s robust MiNavigator, a state-wide resource for families on all issues related to autism. Visit AAoM for its comprehensive calendar of events.
877-463-AAOM

Autism Society of Greater Detroit

Offers peer-to-peer support groups, meet-ups and other resources for parents and families and those with autism.

Bluestone VOICES for Autism

Livonia, Mich. based nonprofit that provides financial and therapeutic support to enhance the lives of children and their families through fundraising events and grantmaking. Funds families of children with autism receiving ABA, speech therapy or occupational therapy in Michigan and individuals pursuing a BCBA degree.

The Family Center

Resource for building connected, resilient families. Provides connections to programs and resources, plus online information for parents and families. Based on Grosse Pointe Farms.
313-447-1374

MiABLE

Michigan’s flexible 529 savings account for individuals with disabilities who are eligible for SSI or SSDI.
844-656-7225

Autism Support of Michigan

Educational resources, materials and other services for individuals and families. 

517-882-2800

Early On Michigan

Michigan’s system for families with children birth-3 who have developmental delays or developmental disabilities.
800-327-5966

Michigan Autism Program

Resources and support for families and caregivers, including the Michigan ASD State Plan. 

“We started talking about anxiety after the meltdown — not during it. That changed everything.”

Henry Ford Health child and adolescent psychiatrist Melissa Hendriks recommends finding a calm moment to ask your teen what helped (or didn’t help) when they were overwhelmed.

“Should I give you space? Stay close? Turn the lights off?” Together, you can create a go-to plan for next time — and reduce the fear of not knowing what to do.

Need More Support?

There's a wealth of knowledge and support available through Henry Ford Health. Learn the latest research regarding autism, discover life-changing outcomes and get expert advice at Henry Ford Health.