Autism and grief

In this episode of a different brilliant, host Madeleine Jane Lobsey is joined by Jennifer Lowe, autism researcher and PhD candidate at La Trobe University’s Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, to explore a subject often avoided but deeply human: grief.

Jennifer shares her lived experience alongside insights from her research into how Autistic people process grief and bereavement. Together, they discuss how grief extends beyond the death of a loved one, pet, or friend. For many Autistic people, the loss of routines, meaningful objects, or everyday familiarity can also evoke feelings of grief.

Topics include:

• Defining grief in an Autistic context
• Autistic experiences of bereavement
• Anticipatory grief and first experiences of loss
• Objects, routines, and the meaning of everyday losses
• Supporting autistic people through grief
• Strategies for families, educators and professionals
• Reflections on wider cultural approaches to death

Whether you’re an Autistic adult, a parent or carer, or a professional supporting neurodivergent people, this episode offers both practical insights and moving lived experience.

Please note: This episode discusses sensitive themes. If you experience distress, please seek support through Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the services below.

Additional resources:

Aspect’s self-compassion program: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/evidence-informed-guides-programs/aspaa

Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Headspace: https://headspace.org.au/

Black Dog Institute: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/

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