Staying Strong After Your Child’s Autism Diagnosis

Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can feel like stepping into a new world—one that often comes with unique challenges, questions, and changes to your life as a parent. Adjusting to this reality isn’t just about finding the right support for your child; it’s also about learning how to cope, care for yourself, and maintain your own health and fitness amidst new demands.

Personally after my boys diagnosis, I suffered with poor mental health eventually being diagnosed with PTSD.

I still have to manage my own mental health closely, and the impact this has on your physical health cannot be underestimated. 

Here are practical ways to navigate life after an autism diagnosis and how to stay physically and mentally strong along the way.

How to Cope with Your Child Being Diagnosed with Autism

The initial diagnosis is often overwhelming. You might feel a mixture of shock, worry, and even grief for the life you imagined for your child. These feelings are natural, and definitely something that I felt deeply. The key to coping with them is giving yourself permission to feel without judgment. Many parents find that connecting with support groups, therapists, or even close friends who understand can provide a tremendous sense of relief and perspective. Often you feel completely isolated and alone, and yet, there are many people out there going through a similar situation. You just have to find them. 

Maintaining routines, especially around your own health and fitness, is crucial during this time. It's probably the last thing you feel like doing, but by setting aside even 20 minutes a day you can make a difference in managing emotions and stress.

How to Cope with Life with Autism

As you settle into daily life with autism, new patterns will emerge. Structure and consistency are essential not only for your child but for you as well. Creating predictable routines can help you manage the day-to-day challenges and build a sense of stability. It may also mean prioritising time differently—possibly reducing work hours or focusing on tasks that allow for more flexibility.

We have had to completely re-assess what our work and family life looks like. I have stepped back from many businesses to help care for the boys. Financially it has been a strain, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. 

Personally I took a complete career reversal, moving back into the fitness industry having been away from it for years. 

Don’t lose sight of your own needs. Staying physically active is one of the best ways to maintain the energy and resilience required for parenting.

How Do You Cope with an Autistic Child?

Coping with an autistic child is a long-term process that evolves with your child’s development. Patience and flexibility are crucial. Every child with autism is different, so finding the right approaches to communication, learning, and play takes time. You may need to adjust your expectations and redefine what success looks like, especially in terms of development. This in itself can be painful  expeirence and requires a lot of resilience. 

The physical demands of this journey can be taxing. Regular exercise and good nutrition aren’t just about keeping up appearances—they’re about keeping up your stamina and mental health. regular training can provide a needed sense of accomplishment when other areas feel challenging. I always tell myself - this is the ONE THING I can be in charge of.

How Will an Autistic Child Change My Life?

Life with an autistic child will bring new insights and different kinds of rewards.

I found that my perspective on success, happiness, and fulfilment changed profoundly.

You’ll likely develop new patience and empathy, and you may even find yourself motivated to stay healthier and stronger to support your child fully.

While the journey can be demanding, it doesn’t mean losing sight of your own sense of self. Finding ways to stay active, focus on positive routines, and care for yourself ensures that you have the energy and resilience to be the best parent you can be.

I hope this short blog offers some comfort and perspective to anyone reading it. I'm not an expert—just a parent sharing my personal experience. Raising autistic twins has been a challenging journey, both emotionally and physically. Every day, I remind myself to keep perspective, to embrace patience, and to find joy in the small wins that come our way. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a reminder of the progress we’re making together. I hope my story resonates and reassures you that you’re not alone on this path.

If you’re reading this and you’re raising a child with ASD, know that you’re not alone. Some days feel easier, and some don’t—but each day shapes you into a stronger, more resilient parent. This journey may not always go as expected, but you’ll find a deeper well of patience, empathy, and courage than you ever knew you had. Remember, you’re growing alongside your child, and together, you’ll discover new ways to thrive.
 

Programs designed with busy parents in mind can be especially helpful. For instance, My StrongDad Program offers workouts tailored for fathers who need to stay strong without spending hours in the gym. By focusing on strength and endurance, you’re better equipped for both the physical and emotional aspects of parenting.