Depression

Woman depressed curled up on chair in a dark room

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What is depression?

Everyone feels sad or low sometimes, but these feelings usually pass with time. Depression (also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is different. It can cause severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. It can affect anyone—regardless of age, race, income, culture, or education. Research suggests that genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors play a role in depression.

How common is depression?

Depression has been observed to co-occur at relatively high rates in people with autism and more often than in people without autism, by both the American Psychiatric Association and American Psychological Association. 

Signs of depression in autism

Telltale signs of depression in autistic people can include loss of interest in once-favorite activities, a noticeable worsening in hygiene. Overlapping autistic traits like sleep disturbances, social withdrawal, and a reduced desire to communicate can also be signs of depression, especially if they become more severe or appear for the first time. But those with depression also have pervasive feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, and irritability, which are not characteristic of autism.  

Factors that may contribute to depression in autistic people include social isolation and loneliness, bullying, societal judgement, masking, and sensory overload as well as lack of support.  Depression rates for people with autism tend to rise with age and intellectual ability.  

Diagnosing depression

Though depression is common in those with autism, diagnosing it represents a challenge. Many individuals with autism spectrum disorders show little facial emotion. This does not necessarily mean they’re depressed. But their presentation doesn’t always match how they feel. Add to that communication differences which can mask depression, and it is understandable why it can be difficult to recognize depression in someone with autism. 

Treatment options for depression and providers who can help

Depression can be managed with help. Treatment for depression for autistic people can include a combination of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), antidepressant medication, building a support network and lifestyle changes. Small ones like even taking a fifteen minute walk outside can help alleviate depression symptoms.  

Left untreated, depression can lead to frequent thoughts about death, self-harm and suicidal ideation. Research consistently indicates autistic people are at heightened risk of suicide, with a 2024 Kennedy Krieger Institute study indicated suicidal thoughts and behaviors may begin at very young ages in children with autism spectrum disorder.

If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. It is free and confidential.  

Call or text 988 on your phone.  

Línea de Prevención del Suicidio y Crisis: 1-888-628-9454. 

988 also has a few important resources for neurodivergent adults who are in crisis, have suicidal ideation, or are at risk of suicide:   

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