A STAGGERING 71 per cent of children with autism also have a mental health problem, such as depression.

In addition, a third of adults with autism told us that they had developed a severe mental health problem as a result of a lack of support.

Yet autism is not a mental health problem. People with autism can and do enjoy good mental health and, given the right support, mental health problems can be prevented.

All too often they either get no help at all or help that is inappropriate or, on occasion, even harmful.

This has a devastating effect on families, many of whom develop their own mental health problems as a result.

The National Autistic Society is calling for this tragic waste of lives and money to stop.

We all need to know that by giving people with autism the understanding and support they need, we help promote their health and happiness.

Sarah Lambert, National Autistic Society.