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Depression in Persons with Autism: Implications for Research and Clinical Care

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Abstract

Although several studies have investigated the occurrence of medical and neurological conditions in persons with autism, relatively few reports have focused on the phenomenology and treatment of psychiatric disorders in this population. There is emerging evidence that depression is probably the most common psychiatric disorder that occurs in autistic persons. In this review, we examine the factors that influence the presence of depression in this population, such as the level of intelligence, age, gender, associated medical conditions, and the role of genetic factors and life events. We discuss the various forms of treatment available and highlight the need for early detection.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109

    Mohammad Ghaziuddin, Neera Ghaziuddin & John Greden

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  1. Mohammad Ghaziuddin
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  2. Neera Ghaziuddin
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  3. John Greden
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Correspondence to Mohammad Ghaziuddin.

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Ghaziuddin, M., Ghaziuddin, N. & Greden, J. Depression in Persons with Autism: Implications for Research and Clinical Care. J Autism Dev Disord 32, 299–306 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1016330802348

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