My Teen with Autism is Depressed. What Can I Do?
Parenting a teen with autism comes with a unique blend of challenges and beautiful moments. But at times life for your teen might be overshadowed by worry. Depression is slightly more common in teens with autism, and it's crucial to know the signs and how to help.
Understanding Depression in Teens with Autism
Teens with autism are more likely to experience depression than their neurotypical peers [1]. This can be due to several factors. Social situations can be confusing and overwhelming, leading to feelings of isolation. Sensory overload, common in autism, can be a constant source of stress. Difficulty with change and transitions can also contribute to depressive episodes [2].
Recognizing the Signs
Social withdrawal is a classic symptom of depression, but teens with autism might already have a preference for solitude. Here are some key signs to watch for that might indicate depression in a teenager with autism.
Changes in mood - Increased irritability, sadness that lingers for weeks, or a loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy are all potential signs.
Changes in behavior - Difficulty concentrating in school, increased meltdowns, or neglecting personal hygiene can be indicators. More severe or frequent repetitive/compulsive behavior is also associated with depression in teens with autism.
Changes in sleep or appetite - Sleeping too much or too little, changes in eating habits, or unexplained weight loss/gain can be red flags.
Loss of hope - Talking about feeling hopeless or worthless, or expressing thoughts of self-harm are serious signs that require immediate attention.
Opening Up the Conversation
Creating a safe space for open communication with your teen who has autism involves a blend of understanding, patience, and the right tools. Here are concrete steps and resources to help parents facilitate this important aspect of their teen’s emotional development:
Introduce Visual Communication Tools
Utilize picture boards or flashcards that represent a range of emotions. These can be homemade or purchased. Visual aids help your teen identify and express feelings without the pressure of finding the right words.
Consider apps like Mood Meter, designed to help users identify and communicate their emotions through a simple, color-coded chart.
Establish a Communication Routine
Dedicate a specific time each day for “check-ins” using a method that suits your teen best. This could be during a calm moment after dinner or before bedtime.
Use tools like emotion diaries or journals, where your teen can draw or write about their day. Encourage them to share whatever they're comfortable with, even if it's just a drawing or a single word.
Embrace Technology for Expression
Explore apps designed for nonverbal communication or emotional expression, such as Proloquo2Go. These apps offer pictorial and text options for users to express complex emotions and thoughts.
Set up a shared digital journal or blog where you and your teen can post pictures, videos, or text about your feelings and daily experiences. Platforms like Day One or simple Google Docs can facilitate this.
Create a 'Feelings Box'
Together with your teen, decorate a box where you both can drop notes or drawings about how you’re feeling. Regularly go through the box together, discussing each entry without judgment.
This physical act of expressing and sharing can be a therapeutic way for your teen to see their feelings acknowledged and respected.
Use Storytelling and Role-Playing Games
Engage in storytelling or role-playing games that explore various scenarios and emotions. This method can help your teen understand and articulate feelings in a safe, controlled environment.
Rory’s Story Cubes or creating personalized storyboards together can be a fun and insightful way to explore emotions and appropriate responses.
Encourage Creative Outlets
Facilitate access to creative forms of expression like painting, music, or dance. These activities can offer an alternative way for your teen to express emotions they can’t easily put into words.
Apps like GarageBand for music or Tayasui Sketches for drawing provide platforms for digital artistic expression.
Seeking Professional Help
Depression is a treatable condition. Don't hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or pediatrician experienced with autism and adolescent depression [4]. Therapy options like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can equip your teen with healthy coping mechanisms to manage their emotions. Social skills training can also be incredibly beneficial in helping them navigate social situations more confidently [5].
Supporting Your Teen at Home
While professional help is crucial, your support at home makes a world of difference:
Maintain a predictable routine - Having a clear schedule with consistent expectations can provide structure and comfort for your teen, reducing anxiety and potential triggers.
Prioritize healthy habits - Encourage regular exercise and a consistent sleep schedule to support overall well-being. Exercise releases endorphins that can improve mood, and a good night's sleep helps regulate emotions.
Validate their feelings - Listen attentively without judgment. Let them know their emotions are valid and that you're there to support them.
Find activities they enjoy - Help them explore interests and hobbies that bring them joy, especially those that promote social interaction if that's something they desire. Engaging in activities can combat feelings of isolation and boost their mood.
Additional Resources
The road to recovery can be long, but with the right support, your teen can feel better. There are many support groups online with parents who are going through the same thing. Joining a group and finding the right support is a great first step.
Support Groups Online for Parents of Teens with Autism
Finding the Right Support System
Schools that specialize in autism can provide a supportive environment that caters to your teen's unique needs. Here at PS Academy Arizona, we offer a structured environment that can be instrumental in helping your teen not only manage their depression but also thrive in all areas of life.
Sources:
Autism Speaks: https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-facts-and-figures
Understood.org: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-is-autism
The Arc: https://thearc.org/
American Academy of Child and Adolescent