Depression with Asperger's Syndrome and Autism

Depression with Asperger's Syndrome and Autism

Does Asperger's or autism mean you can't also suffer from depression? Absolutely not! Just because you've been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder doesn't mean you don't also deal with other mental health issues like depression, other mood disorders, or anxiety.

As a therapist who specializes in working with people with Asperger's Syndrome and autism, I often speak with clients who believe that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) means they cannot suffer from another mental health issue. And that's a problem because the painful symptoms that result from depression, other mood disorders, or anxiety can be treated. Both psychotherapy and medication can be effective.

I think some confusion arises from the terminology. Children with ASDs are often treated with a number of different types of “therapies,” from behavioral therapies to relational therapies to social skills therapies. All of these can be effective in treating the behaviors and symptoms of ASDs, but they are very different from “therapy” – that is, psychotherapy – which aims to treat various psychological problems. Of course there can be an overlap. For example, I often do social skills “therapy” when working with depressed clients who are dealing with social isolation. The difference, however, is that psychotherapy typically addresses psychological issues such as feelings of sadness or anxiety, regardless of whether the patient also has an ASD or not.

It's also confusing because so much of the information and research about autism and Asperger's is about children. But that doesn't mean there aren't many adults with ASDs. And many of these adults have never been formally diagnosed. Some people may think that their feelings of sadness or anxiety are just part of ASD. But that's not true. Many people with ASDs live happy and healthy lives.

There is little data about psychological problems and ASDs. Probably the most extensive research comes from Mohammad Ghaziuddin. He has published a number of professional articles and the book Mental Health Aspects of Autism and Asperger Syndrome. Although data is scarce, it appears that rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders are actually higher in individuals dealing with ASDs.

So what should you do if you suspect you have an ASD and another mental health disorder? get help. Find a trained professional, e.g. For example, a doctor, licensed therapist, or psychologist you can work with. It's best to focus on professionals who are familiar with ASDs and comfortable working with individuals on the autism spectrum. With the appropriate help, you can feel much better.

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