This page is designed to answer the following questions:
- 5.3. Describe the concerns that can arise from these co-occurring conditions. (Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism, Introduction to Autism)
NOTE: This page has been quality assured for 2023 as per our Quality Assurance policy.
In the previous sections, we have looked at the links between autism and learning disability, mental ill-health, and other medical conditions.
Co-occurring conditions or comorbidities in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can compound the challenges these individuals face, and can lead to a variety of concerns.
Individuals with multiple diagnoses require a multidimensional approach to care, which can be difficult to coordinate. Each condition might require different therapeutic approaches or medications, and these can interact in complex ways.
Some co-occurring conditions can exacerbate the challenges that autistic individuals face. For example, mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can make social interaction even more difficult.
The presence of multiple conditions can make it more difficult to diagnose each condition accurately. Symptoms of different conditions can overlap, making it challenging to distinguish between them. For instance, the inability to acknowledge or respond to other people’s feelings can be a symptom of both autism and ADHD.
Having multiple conditions can increase the overall stress and anxiety experienced by both individuals with ASD and their families. It can be overwhelming to manage multiple treatments and therapies, and the individual and their family may struggle to cope with the demands of different conditions. Managing multiple conditions can also lead to higher costs for things like private treatments, adaptations to the home, or equipment placing a financial burden on the individual and their family.
Co-occurring conditions such as mental health disorders, dyspraxia, or epilepsy can further impair the social functioning of individuals with autism and can significantly impact their quality of life. In addition, having multiple diagnoses can increase the risk of stigmatization and isolation for individuals with autism.
Given these concerns, it’s crucial for healthcare providers, educators, and families to be aware of the potential for co-occurring conditions in individuals with ASD and to approach diagnosis and treatment in a comprehensive, integrated way that addresses the whole individual and all of their needs.