Empowering autistic adults

Imagine a world where autistic adults receive the comprehensive, research-backed care they need—where their mental and physical health is prioritised, and their voices shape the support they receive. This future is possible, and you can be part of making it happen.

Dr Jessica Bayes

Dr Jessica Bayes, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine at Southern Cross University, is leading innovative research to better understand and improve the health and wellbeing of autistic adults. With a PhD in Public Health and expertise in nutritional psychiatry, she is pioneering studies that explore how diet and lifestyle habits impact mental health outcomes. But her work is about more than just research—it’s about real-world solutions that create lasting change.

“Autistic adults have long been overlooked in discussions about health and wellbeing. It's time to shine a spotlight on their unique needs and experiences."

Your support, a lifeline for Autistic adults

Autistic adults face significant barriers to healthcare and support services. Research shows that 70% of autistic individuals experience mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression—yet these issues are often overlooked. Autistic individuals are also more likely to experience co-occurring physical health conditions and have a suicide rate nine times higher than the general population. Tragically, their life expectancy is 20–36% lower than the national average.

Jessica’s research aims to address this critical disparity by identifying the key factors that affect mental and physical health in autistic adults. She recently completed a survey of nearly six hundred autistic adults, examining the relationships between diet, lifestyle, and mental well-being.

Jessica serves as the Deputy Chair and Research Officer for the Northern Rivers Autism Association (NRAA), where she connects with the community by running workshops and managing the local newsletter. She is also a member of the executive committee for the Australasian Society for Autism Research (ASfAR). By collaborating closely with the autistic community, she ensures her research is shaped by lived experience, leading to practical, evidence-based solutions for those who need them most.

Transforming lives - together

One of the greatest ways we can support autistic adults is by investing in research that prioritises their health and wellbeing. By identifying effective interventions, shaping clinical practice, and informing policy development, Jessica’s work has the power to create lasting change at both the individual and societal levels.

Your donation fuels this mission—allowing Jessica to expand her research, develop targeted support strategies, and drive meaningful improvements in the lives of autistic adults. With your support, we can work towards a future where every autistic person has the opportunity to thrive.

Join us in shaping a more inclusive and compassionate future. Together, we can be the reason someone has a better tomorrow.

Share this page

More stories of impact