I find it difficult to motivate my 24-year-old son

I find it difficult to motivate my 24-year-old son. He hardly ever leaves the house and will often spend hours on his own in his room.

It can be difficult for adults with autism to imagine a future, which makes it hard to motivate them to do anything that may impact on that, such as exams or college courses. Some people may have an interest in a particular area, ie cycling. Is there a way of using that interest to link to a college course in, for example, bike maintenance or a job, such as a courier? It will be much easier to motivate your son by using his interest and will provide a more logical reason for your son as to why he should do something (Lawson, 2005).

For more help with employment, read our information packs for people with autism looking for a job and for potential employers.

Social skills

Some adults with autism feel isolated, finding it difficult to mix with their peer group, or feel socially vulnerable. Meeting other people with autism - either face-to-face or over the internet - can be a good source of support and also help put your son in contact with some of the other support services that may be available to him.

For details about support in your area please search our Autism Services Directory. You and your son can also find online support at the NAS Community and read further information about our social groups on our website.

Mental health and autism

Some adults with autism suffer from mental health difficulties such as depression, and it may be that your son is finding it hard to become motivated because he is battling depression as well.

If this is the case, you may need to seek some input from a medical professional, which might initially be a counsellor. The Autism Helpline has a small database of counsellors who work with adults with autism; please contact us on 0808 800 4104 to see if we have any details in your area. You may also find useful our information about counselling and behaviour.