Common Mental Health and co-occurring conditions

1. Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues faced by people with autism. This may include generalised anxiety, social anxiety, or specific phobias. The world can often feel unpredictable and overwhelming for those with autism, leading to heightened feelings of anxiety and stress. Changes in routine, unfamiliar environments, or sensory overload can trigger anxious reactions.

• Signs of anxiety: Excessive worrying, restlessness, avoidance of social situations, irritability, and physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches.
• Support strategies: Creating a predictable routine, providing sensory breaks, using calming techniques, and offering reassurance can help reduce anxiety. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) adapted for autism may also be beneficial.

2. Depression

Depression can be particularly difficult to recognise in autistic individuals, especially when social communication difficulties make it harder for them to express their feelings. Autistic people with depression may experience symptoms such as low mood, loss of interest in activities, and changes in sleep or appetite.

• Signs of depression: Persistent sadness, withdrawal from social interactions, lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, changes in sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating.
• Support strategies: Encouraging open communication, providing emotional support, and working with mental health professionals to develop coping strategies are essential. Therapy, such as CBT or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), can be helpful for addressing depressive symptoms.

3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD involves repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and behaviours (compulsions) that a person feels compelled to perform. For individuals with autism, OCD tendencies may manifest as repetitive routines, rituals, or fixations on certain objects or topics.

• Signs of OCD: Repetitive behaviours, such as handwashing or checking, strong insistence on sameness, intrusive thoughts, and distress when routines are disrupted.
• Support strategies: Behavioural therapies, particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), can help manage compulsive behaviours. Providing a predictable environment and reducing anxiety triggers can also be beneficial.

4. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is commonly co-occurring with autism. Individuals with both conditions may experience difficulties with focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can affect their mental health and relationships.

• Signs of ADHD: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, impulsive behaviour, and restlessness.
• Support strategies: A structured routine, behavioural interventions, and sometimes medication can help manage ADHD symptoms. Tailored support in school or work environments is often necessary.

5. Emotional Regulation Difficulties

Many individuals with autism experience difficulties with emotional regulation. They may have intense emotional responses that are difficult to manage or communicate. This can lead to outbursts, meltdowns, or shutdowns, especially in stressful situations.

• Signs of emotional regulation difficulties: Intense anger, frustration, or sadness; difficulty calming down after an emotional upset; difficulty recognising or expressing emotions.
• Support strategies: Teaching emotional awareness, providing coping mechanisms, and using visual supports can help individuals regulate their emotions. Therapy that focuses on emotional regulation, such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), can also be useful.