Dr Ru Ying Cai: Self-compassion, ...

Dr Ru Ying Cai: Self-compassion, Autism and what workplaces can do to support wellbeing for autistic individuals

The Wellbeing Edge by Ruth Kent
S2 · E5
Sep 29, 2026
52:20

Episode notes

How can we better support autistic people, and the people who care for them, both at work and in the community? In this episode, we talk with Dr Ru Ying Cai about autism, self-compassion, communication, and the workplace.

Dr Cai explains why self-compassion matters for autistic individuals and their carers, how non-autistic people can better understand the needs of their autistic peers, and what workplaces can do to support wellbeing, from flexible arrangements and sensory-friendly spaces to a culture of psychological safety.

Whether you're autistic, a carer, a colleague, or a leader, you'll come away with practical, compassionate ideas for making work and life more inclusive, creating opportunities for better mental health for all.

Dr Ru Ying Cai is a Research Fellow at ARCAP and Senior Research Fellow at Mindful, the University of Melbourne. Ru is passionate about researching the factors that can improve the resilience and psychological wellbeing of Autistic individuals and parents of Autistic children, including emotion regulation, self-compassion, financial wellbeing, and inclusive employment. Ru serves as the Chair of the Board at Different Journeys.

Connect with Dr Ru Ying Cai: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ru-ying-cai-86ab063/

ARCAP: Aspect Research Centre For Autism Practice:https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research

ASPECT Research Centre: https://www.aspect.org.au/

Self-Compassion for parents of Autistic children: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/impact/empowering-autistic-people/parent-self-compassion

Aspect Self-Compassion Program for Autistic Adults (ASPAA): https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/evidence-informed-guides-programs/aspaa

Different Journeys: https://www.differentjourneysautism.com

To speak with Ruth at Sunrise Well contact: https://www.sunrisewell.com.au/contact

Keywords

wellbeing
Performance
Work
burnout
selfawareness
compassion
mentalhealth
autism
neurodiversity