People with autism spectrum disorders have an increased rate of having a co-occurring mental health disorder. The most common mental health disorders that are seen with ASD are ADHD (primarily inattentive subtype), anxiety disorders, depression, and pediatric bi-polar disorder.
Often, people with ASD go undiagnosed, and therefore do not receive help for their mental health disorders. This is due primarily to the lack of information for professionals, and the inability of the person with ASD to complain of specific symptoms or state their feelings.
Symptoms may also look different for people with ASD, especially if they have an intellectual disability of impairment in their ability to communicate. It is important that family members and caregivers be aware of changes in mood, affect, attitude, and attention. If there is a significant change in behavior, gradually or quickly, that seems to last for more than a few weeks it is important to seek help for the person with ASD.
Parents and caregivers need to be sure to look for a professional that has experience working with people with ASD. Treating the symptoms of an underlying mental health disorder can help the person with ASD to live a happier and healthier life.
Book of the Week: The asperger plus child : how to identify and help children with asperger syndrome and seven common co-existing conditions : bipolar disorder, nonverbal learning disability, obsessive compulsive disorder, oppositional defiance disorder, high-functioning autism, Tourette's syndrome, and attention deficit disorder / George T. Lynn ; with Joanne Barrie Lynn. APC, 2007.
Description: T
his practical guide to helping children with complex diagnoses at home and at school is based on current research as well as the author's clinical observations from working with this population for 15 years. Written for parents, teachers, counselors and medical professionals.
This book is in the SESA Library. You may search the library catalog via the SESA website (http://www.sesa.org), or contact Anne directly by email at afreitag@sesa.org or by phone at 907-334-1301.
