The autism grief cycle refers to the range of emotions parents or caregivers may experience after their child receives an autism diagnosis. It’s similar to the stages of grief described in other life changes—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—but it’s not about “mourning” the child. Instead, it’s about adjusting expectations and understanding a new path forward.

At first, some parents may feel shock or denial, struggling to process the news. This can be followed by frustration or sadness about challenges their child might face. Over time, as they learn more about autism, many parents shift toward acceptance and empowerment, focusing on their child’s unique strengths.

It’s important to know this cycle is normal and it’s okay to move through the stages at your own pace. Support from professionals, autism communities, and therapy can make the journey easier.

At Blossom ABA, we help families navigate this transition with compassionate, individualized ABA therapy in Georgia, Tennessee, and Virginia. Our goal is to help your child grow, learn, and thrive.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your family’s next steps.

SOURCES:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6926999/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0882596324001131

https://www.europeanreview.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/7698-7708-1.pdf

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/357602047_Stages_of_grieving_in_fathers_of_autistic_children_a_qualitative_study

https://hnu.herdin.ph/index.php/herdin-home?view=research&cid=54862