Navigating the Intersection Between Autism and Mental Health
- Chyann Klahs
- Apr 15, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 8, 2024
April is designated as Autism Awareness Month is a time dedicated to increasing awareness of the intellectual disability that affects how a person perceives and interacts with the world around them. This month, it is crucial for us to advocate for a better understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as discoveries are being made about the condition and its relationship with mental health.
Researchers have begun to make connections between autism and other conditions such as anxiety, depression, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Autism is a condition that can affect individuals in many different ways, including communication barriers, socialization difficulties, repetitive behaviors, and emotional regulation issues.
According to the National Autism Indicators Report in 2021, "National estimates, based on parental reporting, suggest that three-quarters of autistic children have at least one co-occurring mental health condition, including behavior or conduct problems, ADHD (attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), anxiety and depression."
While recent studies and reports like these suggest a link between ASD, ADHD, and mental health disorders, behavioral health specialists and scientists are still trying to understand why individuals with autism are at a higher risk of developing comorbid conditions. Scientists theorize that genetics may play a role based on findings that have identified shared genealogical and chromosomal factors between autism and these disorders.
While scientists theorize that genetics is what facilitates the relationship between autism and mental health conditions, ASD specialists believe that mental health problems develop over time as a result of the challenges individuals with ASD face living life on the spectrum. Behavioral Health professionals believe that individuals with ASD are at an increased risk of developing a mental illness because of the way their minds function and the ways they are treated by society.
Those with ASD perceive the world differently, and any change or instability can be threatening. Add onto this that society is not always kind or accepting, making it even more challenging for individuals with ASD to cope with their condition, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders.
Individuals with autism often engage in a behavior known as camouflaging or masking in an attempt to hide their disability and appear "normal" to society. Masking causes a person to disconnect from parts of their identity and suppress self-soothing or stimulatory behaviors that occur naturally in individuals with ASD. This can lead to social anxiety, isolation, and feelings of inadequacy, as the person fears that they will not be accepted as their authentic selves. Masking can lead to negative feelings and behaviors that may result in the manifestation of mental illness.
According to another article published by Molecular Autism titled Is social camouflaging associated with Anxiety and Depression in autistic adults, "There is emerging evidence that social camouflaging may be a risk factor for anxiety and depression in autism." In addition, this article explains that "Camouflaging is very commonly reported to be exhausting and stressful. Further, the habitual practice of pretending not to be autistic can erode a person's sense of identity."
While it is still unclear why individuals with autism are more likely to develop co-occurring conditions, psychologists and scientists both agree that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial when symptoms of mental illness begin to arise. Interventions like therapy and medications have been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of mental illness and improving the lives of individuals, regardless of whether they are on the spectrum.
Despite controversy, therapy has been proven to be an effective treatment option for individuals with ASD who are struggling with their mental health. Therapists may adjust approaches to treatment to meet the specific needs of each individual on the with autism. Autism and mental health disorders are both complex conditions that can affect people in different ways. A good therapist will work with clients to find the best ways to help them heal and cope with their conditions.
Many different types of therapy can be used to treat disorders like depression and anxiety. For those on the spectrum who are struggling with their mental health, therapists will often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is a type of talk therapy that can be useful in treating individuals with ASD who have co-occurring conditions. CBT helps people understand their emotions and behaviors, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and emphasizes how thoughts can influence feelings and actions. Along with CBT, medication may also be a beneficial form of treatment. However, it is essential to note that therapy and medication are most effective when used together.
In addition to treatment, having a strong support system is vital for individuals with ASD and co-occurring mental health conditions. Coping with and seeking treatment for mental illness can be overwhelming for anyone, but it can be especially challenging for those with ASD. The cause of the connection between ASD and mental health is still up for debate, but what is clear is that loved ones can help individuals with ASD cope with their conditions by being aware of this connection and providing them with a safe space.
As we journey through Autism Awareness Month, we must advocate for continued research into the intricate relationship between autism and other co-occurring conditions. We must also become committed to building a supportive environment where individuals with autism feel accepted and valued for their unique strengths and perspectives. By championing acceptance and understanding, we can enhance the quality of life for people with ASD and potentially mitigate the challenges they encounter, including their heightened susceptibility to mental health conditions.
This article was written for Planted, Not Buried's segment Spread Your Roots,
Grow Your Knowledge. Planted, not Buried is a non-profit organization that
focuses on empowering, educating, and inspiring others through outreach,
events, networking, and opportunities.
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