Depression & Autism

Depression is relatively common among autistic children and young people, with studies suggesting that they are at a higher risk of experiencing depressive symptoms compared to their non-autistic peers. The prevalence of depression in autistic individuals varies widely, but estimates suggest that rates may be significantly higher than in the general population. 

Autistic people who experience depression are more likely to perceive less acceptance of their autistic identity from others and also experience decreased personal acceptance of autism (Cage, Di Monaco, & Newell, 2018).