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By Steven Lecce, LMHC  The teenage years are a period of profound transformation, characterized by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. For adolescents on the autism spectrum, these challenges can be intensified, bringing unique mental health struggles to the forefront. Recognizing when your teen is facing difficulties and knowing how to offer support is essential as a parent or caregiver.
Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression in Autistic Teens
Anxiety and depression are notably common among autistic adolescents. Research indicates that individuals on the spectrum may experience these issues more frequently than their neurotypical peers due to several contributing factors:
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Social Interaction: Autistic teens often socialize differently, which can lead to feelings of isolation or exclusion from peer groups.
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Communication Barriers: They may struggle to express their emotions verbally, making it challenging to communicate their mental state.
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Repetitive Behaviors: An increase in repetitive behaviors or insistence on specific routines can indicate underlying stress or anxiety.
Behavioral Indicators of Mental Health Concerns
As a significant adult in an autistic teen’s life, you can play a pivotal role in supporting their mental health. It’s important to be observant of changes in their behavior, such as:
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Variations in eating or sleeping patterns.
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An inclination towards increased solitude.
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A noticeable decrease in interest in activities they once enjoyed.
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Behavioral responses to stress.
These changes can be key indicators of their emotional well-being, as autistic teens may express their emotions differently from their peers.
Therapeutic Interventions for Autistic Adolescents
Behavioral therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), are effective for autistic teens. It is crucial to find a counselor experienced in working with autistic individuals, as tailored adjustments can significantly enhance the effectiveness of therapy.
In conclusion, being attuned to your autistic teen’s emotional state, recognizing behavioral changes, and providing appropriate support can make a substantial difference in their mental health journey. It’s important to remember that mental health struggles are common among all adolescents, whether autistic or not. By fostering understanding, empathy, and support, we can help our teens navigate the complexities of adolescence.
References:
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Oshima, F., Mandy, W., Seto, M., et al. (2023). Cognitive behavior therapy for autistic adolescents, awareness and care for my autistic traits program: a multicenter randomized controlled trial. BMC Psychiatry, 23, 661.
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Sharma, S., Hucker, A., Matthews, T., et al. (2021). Cognitive behavioural therapy for anxiety in children and young people on the autism spectrum: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Psychology, 9, 151.
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McConkey R. (2023). Nurturing the Positive Mental Health of Autistic Children, Adolescents and Adults alongside That of Their Family Care-Givers: A Review of Reviews. Brain Sciences, 13(12), 1645.
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Maddox, B.B., Dickson, K.S., Stadnick, N.A. et al. (2021). Mental Health Services for Autistic Individuals Across the Lifespan: Recent Advances and Current Gaps. Curr Psychiatry Rep, 23, 66.
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Hebron, J., & Humphrey, N. (2014). Mental health difficulties among young people on the autistic spectrum in mainstream secondary schools: A comparative study. Journal of Research in Special Educational Needs, 14(1), 22-32.
About the Author...
Steven Lecce is a licensed therapist in New York with certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and expertise in Autism Spectrum Disorder. His focus is on aiding neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals, both teens and adults, who have experienced trauma. His approach is holistic and empathetic, blending proven methods of EMDR, CBT and DBT. Last Update: 3/21/2024
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