Autistic Traits and Suicidality in Midlife and Old Age: Investigating Mediating Effects of Mental Health and Social Connectedness

Aims: Suicidality is increased among middle-aged and older autistic adults; however, little is known about underlying factors linking Autism with suicidality in midlife and older age. This is the first study to address this. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study of 9,979 adults (76% female) aged 50+ completed questionnaires measuring autistic traits, current mental health, social connections, and suicidality (suicidal ideation and suicidal self-harm). Path analysis explored the relationship between autistic traits and suicidality and the mediating effects of current mental health, social connectedness and male/female sex. Results: Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), loneliness and social isolation all significantly mediated the relationship between autistic traits and suicidal ideation. For suicidal self-harm, male sex, depression, PTSD and social isolation were mediators. Conclusions: Mental health difficulties and social isolation mediated higher rates of suicidality in 50+ year olds with high autistic traits. Targeted and individually tailored interventions for people on the Autism spectrum across the lifespan are important.