Autism is a psychiatric diagnosis characterized by persistent impairment in social communication and interaction, and restrictive/repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities – both being present from early childhood and restrict functioning.3 Approximately 70% of people with autism spectrum disorder also have a comorbid mental disorder, commonly anxiety, depression, or attention–deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).3
GAD=generalized anxiety disorder; OCD=obsessive–compulsive disorder; PTSD=post-traumatic stress disorder
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