After having the privilege to attend the discussion "Managing Anxiety and Depression in Children and Adolescents: Supporting Young People, Families, and Mental Health Professionals" at the 2nd Full-Day Conference for the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Initiative—an initiative of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation—it is important to discuss how anxiety and depression affect individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. It is undoubtedly worrying to hear that the prevalence of these challenges among children and adolescents in Greece is on the rise.
A recent study of 382 parental reports in New Zealand found that a quarter to one third of NZ primary-aged children show concerning psychological symptoms, with older children and boys more affected. One-third had been referred for assessment, but access was hindered by waitlists (53%), cost (43%), and lack of guidance (36%). Only 51% of parents reported improvements after intervention. The findings highlight increasing distress and significant barriers to treatment access.
International research indicates that more than one-third of children who visit diagnostic services have significant mental health needs. Individuals with autism are at an increased risk of developing depression. Studies have shown that approximately one in three autistic adolescents and two in three autistic adults have experienced at least one major depressive episode in their lifetime.
Why does this happen?
Several factors contribute to increased vulnerability to depression in autistic individuals, including:
A sense of social isolation and loneliness
Mental exhaustion from efforts to integrate socially
Difficulty feeling understood and experiencing rejection
Internalising and accepting negative comments from peers
A mindset focused on mistakes and potential negative consequences
A family history of psychological difficulties
Repetitive negative thought patterns that trap individuals in a cycle of anxiety and depression
What has our experience at Behavioural Health has taught us so far?
Early detection of anxiety and depression: Children who visit diagnostic services should receive a comprehensive assessment from the outset, including both neurodevelopmental disorders and an evaluation of their emotional health. This combined approach allows for the early identification of potential psychological difficulties and the development of an individualised and holistic therapeutic strategy from the very beginning.
Psychoeducation: Understanding anxiety and depression in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can reduce stigma, improve access to care, and enhance the way these challenges are addressed by both the individual and their environment.
Tailored psychological therapy: Support must be personalised, taking into account each individual’s unique challenges and strengths. The goal is to address factors that increase vulnerability to depression, such as social isolation, mental exhaustion, feeling misunderstood, internalising negative comments, family history, and repetitive negative thoughts that lead to cycles of anxiety and depression.
Services must be prepared to provide appropriate support and guide families toward the right therapeutic options.
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