Imagine this: It’s 2045. Psychologists, therapists, and counsellors have been fully replaced by AI. No more appointments, just open a free, professional AI mental health app on your phone, anytime, anywhere. Hypothetical, yes, but with AI rapidly advancing and replacing jobs across industries, it raises a real question: Will Artificial Intelligence replace Mental Health Support?

Autism, characterised by differences in social communication, repetitive behaviours, and sensory sensitivities, shapes how individuals perceive and interact with the world. These differences, while integral to autistic identity, can create significant stressors in a society often designed for neurotypical individuals. This disconnect can lead to feelings of isolation, misunderstanding, and overwhelm, which can contribute to mental health challenges for autistic individuals.