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
References:
1.National Autistic Society. Good practice guide. For professionals delivering talking therapies for autistic adults and children. Available at: https://www.autism.org.uk/shop/products/books-and-resources/good-practice-guide. Accessed March 2025.
2.Hollocks MJ, Lerh JW, Magiati I, et al. Anxiety and depression in adults with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychol Med 2019; 49 (4): 559–572.
3.American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Fifth Edition – text revision. © American Psychiatric Association, 2022.
