Exploring the anxiety and depression profile in individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in adulthood

Abstract

Symptoms of anxiety and depression are commonly reported by adults diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and their presence can exacerbate core autism symptoms and lower quality of life. This study investigated the symptom profile of anxiety and depression, and its correlates (i.e., age at diagnosis, gender, and ASD severity) in a group of adults who were referred to a specialist diagnostic centre for autism and whose diagnosis was confirmed. It explored whether this profile was different in adults who were referred to the same clinic and where the diagnosis was not confirmed. The results showed that 37% and 46% of adults who received a diagnosis of ASD in adulthood reported symptoms that reflected moderate or severe anxiety or depression. In addition, (lower) age, female gender and autism severity contributed independently to individual differences in self-reported anxiety symptoms. Autism severity and the number of adults who reported severe (vs. minimal) anxiety symptoms were increased in the diagnosed (versus the non-diagnosed) adult group. We discuss the implications for prevention and treatment and directions for future research.

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ORCID for Hanna Kovshoff: orcid.org/0000-0001-6041-0376

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