Is depression a spectrum disorder?

Introduction. Depression is a spectrum of chronic disorders ranging from major depression, minor depression, dysthymia, mixed depressive syndromes with anxiety, and the concept of subsyndromal depression.

What is depressive spectrum?

Abstract. The spectrum of depression is much wider than that reflected in the current diagnostic nomenclature. A large proportion of subjects with depression both in treatment and in the community fail to meet diagnostic criteria for either major depressive disorder (MDD) or dysthymia.

Is depression on the autism spectrum?

Identifying a mood disorder, such as depression, in individuals with autism spectrum disorder may be challenging. Depression has been identified as one of the largest public health burdens in the United States and major depressive disorder is considered one of the most common co-occurring disorders in autism.

What is an spectrum disorder?

Autism is known as a “spectrum” disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience. ASD occurs in all ethnic, racial, and economic groups. Although ASD can be a lifelong disorder, treatments and services can improve a person’s symptoms and ability to function.

How does depression affect autism?

Depression may show up as insomnia and restlessness in children with autism, rather than as the more common feelings of sadness, a new study suggests1. Estimates of the prevalence of depression in autism range from 10 to 72 percent2,3.

What is the difference between bipolar and bipolar disorder?

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, bipolar I disorder involves episodes of severe mania and often depression . Bipolar II disorder involves a less severe form of mania called hypomania . Illustration by Hugo Lin.

How does Autism affect depression?

People with autism, particularly teens and adults, are prone to depression. At this stage of their lives, autistic teens and adults have more social experiences . As a result, they can go through phases of depression, depending on several triggers.

What causes depression in autism?

Depression is common in those with autism, a developmental disorder that ranges greatly in severity and symptom presentation. Experts do not yet agree on whether depression in ASD is a result of social rejection or physiological abnormalities (such as increased inflammation) found in those with autism.

What is depression in autism?

Depression is a mental health problem that is common in autistic people. Depression can have a big impact on daily life and can lead to suicidal thoughts. Depression in autistic people is more more common during adolescence and young adulthood. It often occurs with other conditions, such as anxiety.