Teen Depression and Autism: Unique Challenges, Effective Strategies for Support
Upcoming Webinar
Airing Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm ET
In this webinar, you’ll learn how to recognize and respond to depression symptoms in autistic teens from our expert presenter, Sara Rodrigues, DSW, LICSW. We’ll explore practical strategies for assessment and treatment that respect sensory needs and individual communication styles. You’ll learn practical approaches to support your teen’s mental health, including building positive identity and developing personalized emotional recognition tools.
A place to learn
At Families for Depression Awareness (FFDA), we focus on the families of people living with depression or bipolar disorder ("mood disorders"), equipping family caregivers with education and training so they can provide effective, constructive support to their loved ones.
Mood disorders affect everyone in a family, not only those with the diagnosis. Each family member should be able to have their needs identified and addressed.
In addition to passing along a higher likelihood of having a mood disorder, parents living with a mood disorder can find it hard to engage with their children, take care of household chores, do their work, and sometimes even to get out of bed.
Family caregivers risk wearing themselves out as they help their loved one seek treatment, manage the household and the family, and try to keep a roof over their heads.
Since our beginning, we have shared family stories to help caregivers feel like they are not alone, show that families can address mood disorders together, inspire hope, and dispel stigma. Each year, we add to our library of honest and inspiring accounts of families facing the challenges of mood disorders and suicide.
Depression and ADHD in Adolescents: A Parent’s Guide to Understanding and Support
Recorded Webinar
Watch on demand
Watch this program for an in-depth look at the complex relationship between ADHD and depression and their impact on an adolescent’s mental health. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or other caring adult, this webinar will equip you with practical skills and knowledge to better support adolescents navigating these challenges. With the right support, understanding, and treatment, teens can thrive and lead fulfilling lives, despite their ADHD and depression.
Beyond Traditional Care: Utilizing Unconventional Mental Health Resources
Recorded Livestream
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Our upcoming panel discussion aims to shed light on accessing diverse solutions for addressing mental health, offering expert insights and practical advice. Join us in this important conversation and take the first step toward breaking down barriers to mental wellness.
Why It’s Hard to Get Care and Get Well: Breaking Barriers to Good Mental Health
Recorded Webinar
Watch on demand
What’s stopping your loved one from getting what they need to be mentally healthy? The long list of potential barriers to care can be discouraging. Stay hopeful! With the right information and support, you and your loved one can work through them together! Our upcoming webinar will cover these issues and equip you with practical tools to navigate the complex world of mental health care.
Nurturing Hope: Supporting Loved Ones Who Have Passive Suicidal Thoughts
Recorded Livestream
Watch on demand
Dealing with chronic passive suicidal thoughts can feel like being stuck in a dark tunnel with no end in sight, both for the individual going through them and for their caregivers. It’s an experience that can feel isolating and overwhelming, but it’s not something you have to face alone.




