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Learn how to support autistic children & young people overcome anxiety

Anxiety and autism often go hand in hand, but knowing how to help isn’t always straightforward. This clear, compassionate guide explains why anxiety happens in autistic children and young people, and what you can do to support them effectively. Written by two neurodivergent parents who’ve been through the system themselves, Autism & Anxiety combines professional insight with lived experience to give you practical tools that actually work—at home, in school, and beyond. This book is checked by medical professionals, including two psychiatrists and a neurodivergent paediatrician, to ensure everything is accurate, safe, and useful in real-world settings.

What’s inside

  • Why autistic people experience anxiety differently

  • How to tell if it’s autism, anxiety—or both

  • Real-life examples and support strategies

  • Specific guidance on school stress, sensory triggers, sleep, PDA, and more

  • Tips for both parents and frontline professionals

 

Who is it for?

  • Parents of autistic children and teens struggling with anxiety

  • Educators, support staff, and SENCOs

  • CAMHS staff, GPs, and paediatricians looking for autism-informed guidance

  • Anyone wanting a deeper understanding of how anxiety shows up in autistic young people

If you’ve ever been told “it’s just autism” when you know it’s something more, this book will help you get the clarity and confidence to support your child the way they need.

Buy the book

For the eBook version, head to the Kindle store.

One of those books that you are constantly thinking, Yes! That's it! to every page. (3).pn

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This Book Is Just What Is Needed

I am a recently retired secondary school headteacher. Time and time again I saw the debilitating impact of anxiety upon my neurodivergent students. There was little in the way of meaningful support and the support which was available often arrived too late to make a positive impact. This book is just what is needed, full of lived experiences and upbeat easy suggestions. A must-read for all parents of autistic children.

Emma, Retired Secondary School Headteacher

A Punchy, Practical & Comprehensive Guide

Autism & Anxiety is a punchy, practical and comprehensive guide to anxiety in autistic children. It's a fantastic resource and will help you to understand and support your autistic young person.

@autistic-callum, Autistic blogger and author

Brilliant. Just Brilliant.

An accessible and practical book that just makes sense (as you would expect from Punter and Chaney). Would definitely recommend.

Emma, on Amazon

Essential Handbook For Parents Teachers & Professionals of Autistic Children and Young People

This does what it says on the tin. If you read this book and put the incredible experiences into practice you will be able to support autistic children and young people to overcome anxiety. As a retired clinical psychiatrist I am used to reading text books by academics. This book does not disappoint it is a fantastic fusion of academic knowledge and understanding  with lived experience. The use of personal examples of how anxiety can impact upon an autistic person is a humbling read. The strategies described to overcome these anxieties are inspirational and easy to implement.

Dr. K. E. Harding, on Amazon

I Needed this 25 Years Ago!

I was excited to read this book as I found Parenting Rewired so informative. As a neurodivergent adult who struggles with anxiety I thought I would give this a go and I was NOT disappointed. Useful strategies and tips. Sometimes just an explanation and justification of a feeling is all it takes. I hope this second Punter Chaney book is the second of many.

Elspeth1974, on Amazon

You Will Not Be Disappointed 

I adored the previous book and was worried the "sequel" wouldn't be so good but I shouldn't have worried - it was better! My 9 year old has recently become very anxious about everything and I now feel empowered to support him. The non pandering style is refreshing so many books on autism are virtually instructing parents not to encourage but to give up and make excuses. Hearing from the authors lived experience is so helpful.

MummyBear16, on Amazon

Fantastic Book, The Best Out There

Brilliant book, concise, informative and written by ordinary people. Such a help to me as a grandparent. I read Parenting Rewired, which was a real eye opener, and this follow-up about anxiety and the role it plays has helped me understand why my grandson is who he is. I hope these guys write plenty more of these books, there is nothing out there remotely as good. A big recommend for anyone trying to understand autism and what goes with it.

Peter T, on Amazon

Fantstic!

I ordered for my daughter to read, as well as myself, because my granddaughter has autism and is suffering terribly with anxiety. I'm sure she'll find it very useful.

Christine S, via Fera Reviews

Excellent

This is one of those books that you are constantly saying "yes! That's it!"to every page. It gives clear and insightful perspectives on how things may feel for your child and is like a calming hand to hold to guide you through the tricky world of parenting and advocating for your anxious autistic child. Highly recommend!

Rebecca W, via Fera Reviews

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