The autism grief cycle describes the emotional journey many parents experience after their child is diagnosed with autism. It’s not about grief for the child, but rather the adjustment process as parents learn to accept a new reality and redefine expectations for the future.
This cycle often includes six stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance, and hope. Parents may start by feeling shocked or uncertain, then move through emotions like frustration or sadness. Over time, they reach acceptance recognizing that autism doesn’t limit love or potential, only changes the path forward.
It’s important to remember that this cycle isn’t linear; families can revisit stages as new challenges or milestones arise. What truly helps is understanding, community support, and early intervention, such as ABA therapy, which empowers children to grow and communicate in their own way.
At Little Champs ABA, we provide compassionate, family-centered ABA therapy in Utah and Colorado, supporting both children and parents through every step of the journey.
Feeling overwhelmed after an autism diagnosis? Contact us today!
SOURCE:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/giving-voice/202402/the-spectrum-of-loss-grief-through-the-autistic-lens
https://www.autismandgrief.org/family-friends-direct-support-professionals-3/what-is-grief/
https://www.leicspart.nhs.uk/autism-space/emotional-wellbeing/bereavement-for-autistic-people/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34982431/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/302492855_Feelings_of_loss_and_grief_in_parents_of_children_diagnosed_with_autism_spectrum_disorder_ASD