Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not a mental health condition; however, individuals with ASD are highly likely to have a co-occurring mental health diagnosis.
Common comorbidities of ASD
Common comorbid mental health conditions of ASD include attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorders and depression. Compared to the general public, individuals with ASD are more likely also to have a mental health disorder; however, the exact rates remain unclear due to limitations in research, such as sample size or diagnostic criteria, and underdiagnosis, especially for those whose ASD affects their verbal communication abilities.
ADHD
ADHD is one of the most prevalent co-occurring diagnoses in individuals with ASD, and some research estimates its prevalence is around 30-40%. Many traits of ADHD and ASD present similarly and a significant percentage of children with ASD also meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD.
Anxiety
A meta-analysis of 15 studies estimated that 33% of individuals with ASD experience elevated anxiety symptoms, yet only 20% receive a diagnosis with a specific disorder. Researchers have theorized that heightened anxiety in individuals with ASD may stem from their unique information processing and the social pressure to behave in certain ways, though the exact cause is unclear.
Depression
One researcher conducted an analysis of 55 studies on depression in young autistic individuals, finding the estimated prevalence varied significantly between 8% and 26%. This researcher also reported more severe symptoms of depression in the studies they analyzed but concluded there is a lack of research around and/or techniques developed for intervention specifically targeting depressive symptoms of those with ASD.
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which has been recognized since 1949 in the United States. This year’s observance is themed “Turn Awareness into Action,” challenging individuals to go further and take actionable steps toward personal and collective change. Mental Health America (MHA) recommends implementing small action items into your daily life to boost your mental well-being. Building routine, practicing mindfulness and setting boundaries are some ways you can prioritize yourself day-to-day, which over time can help you better manage larger challenges that arise.
Mental health tips for individuals with ASD
For individuals with ASD, however, mental well-being is likely more complicated in comparison to neurotypical individuals, especially when in conjunction with a specific mental health condition. ASD presents different needs and challenges that may not be effectively managed by the same recommended action items for neurotypical individuals. So, we’ve adapted MHA’s action items to better support the unique needs of autistic individuals. A parent or loved one of someone with ASD can also help implement the following action items.
Create and maintain a predictable routine:
Establishing a day-to-day routine can help ease stress, anxiety and sensory overload. Change can sometimes be overwhelming for individuals with ASD, so predictability can help with focus, control and executive functioning. Less mental energy dedicated to decision-making can help make social interactions and tasks more manageable.
- For parents of children with ASD, here is a helpful guide for creating, implementing and tailoring a schedule for your child.
Use sensory regulation techniques:
As opposed to practicing mindfulness, proactively managing sensory triggers with tools can better ground and ease the minds of individuals with ASD. Sensory triggers and tools may include:
- Bright lights – Wear sunglasses or hats to block the light
- Loud noises or environments – Wear noise-canceling headphones
- Uncomfortable clothing or textures – Cut tags off clothing and choose soft fabrics
- Strong smells – Use unscented laundry detergent and carry a comforting scent cloth to block unwanted smells
- Unwanted touch – Use a compression item such as a weighted blanket for calming pressure and implement social breaks and alone time
- Unfamiliar taste – Keep safe foods available especially when trying new foods
- General – Use a fidget tool to stay grounded and direct mental energy away from the sensory trigger
Set boundaries around camouflaging:
Camouflaging, sometimes called masking, means hiding or suppressing certain undesirable traits to better fit in. Many autistic individuals camouflage to appear neurotypical and be more socially accepted; however, it is exhausting, requires a great deal of energy and can lead to autistic burnout. Prolonged autistic burnout is a driver of mental health issues for individuals with ASD. So, have set times where you can take a break from camouflaging or communicate with trusted loved ones about your need to not camouflage around them.
Prioritize special interests as a form of self-care:
Special interests are common among individuals with ASD. Individuals with ASD should be encouraged to engage in their special interests as a way of easing their minds, relaxing and bringing joy to their daily lives. Special interests can help create a sense of purpose, help reduce anxiety and serve as an effective coping mechanism for emotional regulation.
Understanding the mental health challenges and needs of individuals with ASD is essential for taking action and fostering acceptance. Small, intentional changes can make a lasting impact on your loved ones with ASD.
