Depression in Young People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
“Do teenagers with Asperger syndrome and level 1 autism usually suffer from depression? If so, why? And what should parents look for if they believe their teenager is becoming depressed?” Unfortunately, depression does seem to be common among teens and adults with Asperger’s (AS) and High-Functioning Autism (HFA). Many of the same deficits that produce anxiety may work together to generate depression. Serotonin functions are impaired in many teens with ASD, which suggests that depression and ASD is more likely. Also, the basic circuitry related to frontal lobe functions in depression is affected in some teens on the spectrum. ==> How to Prevent Meltdowns and Tantrums in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder In addition, deficits in social relationships and responses that permit one to compensate for disappointment and frustration may fuel a vulnerability to depression. Furthermore, there is some genetic evidence suggesting that depression and social anxiety are more