Living Through Suicide Loss with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD): An Insider Guide for Individuals, Family, Friends, and Professional Responders, by Lisa Morgan, M.Ed.

A very personal read

This book of 136 pages (plus resources at the end) is divided into 9 chapters. Within the chapters, the author addresses specific topics in short sections, like “The first week” or “Determination,” each followed by a section entitled, “Let me explain/It would be so helpful.” In the “Let me explain” sections, Morgan goes more in-depth on how her experience of the specific topic was shaped by being autistic. Morgan discusses how sensory, communication, or other issues played out as she went through the loss of her husband, handled his affairs, and began building a new life without him.

Let’s get some content warnings out of the way: this book uses language some autistics find problematic, to say the least. It’s right there in the title. Morgan’s understanding of autism is the medical model – deficits, person-first language, etc. 

Additionally, some readers may experience discomfort with descriptions of Morgan’s marriage. If you or someone you care about has been in a relationship with a very controlling partner, you may find some material triggering. Such content is sparse, but you should be aware that it is there. 

Medical model and other possibly triggering content aside, this book has much to offer. Morgan gives an incredibly personal account of her experiences dealing with the suicide of her husband and learning to handle a good many things she did not think she could in the months following his death. What some neurotypical people might consider “oversharing” is precisely what may make this book particularly relatable to autistics and other neurodivergent people.

Morgan discusses obstacles that are and are not specific to being autistic and offers suggestions for what may have helped her along the way. Morgan points out things to be aware of, to watch out for, to avoid, or to embrace. She has tips for professionals, family and friends, and autistic people going through this particular type of loss.

Overall, I would recommend this book. Morgan does a nice job of highlighting both autistic-specific difficulties and strengths in the aftermath of a loved one’s suicide.