Answer this question to the best of your ability:
How can friends and family support the mental health of someone on the autistic spectrum?
Friends and family play a crucial role in supporting the mental health of autistic individuals. Some ways they can provide assistance include understanding and respecting the person's need for routine and structure, being patient with communication difficulties, offering support during times of stress or anxiety, encouraging regular exercise and self-care activities, and connecting them with appropriate mental health resources. Additionally, it's essential to advocate for autistic individuals in their education, workplace, and healthcare settings to ensure they receive the accommodations and support they need.