HIDDEN STRUGGLES: SHEDDING LIGHT ON DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY IN ADULTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM CONDITION

Abstract

This quantitative survey was designed to investigate the symptoms of depression and the level of generalized anxiety in adults with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). For this purpose, 90 adults with ASC, aged 17 years and above with mild autistic symptoms, were selected through the convenient sampling method. The study findings, using the “Generalized Anxiety Disorder” (GAD-7) tool, indicated that adults with ASC experience mild to moderate levels of anxiety, with irritability and annoyance being the highest-scoring items. The study further utilized the "Patient Health Questionnaire" (PHQ-9), to assess depression, which revealed that the majority of adults with ASC experienced moderate levels of depression, with symptoms occurring on several days in their lives. These depression and anxiety symptoms in adults with ASC are most common and there could be multiple factors behind these symptoms which affects their quality of life. It is important that mental health teams assess adults with ASC to determine the reasons behind their mental health-related issues and provide appropriate support and treatment. Raising awareness about autism and other disabilities is also crucial to reduce stigma and promote acceptance in society