Mental health services for adults with autism spectrum disorders
Advances in Mental Health and Learning Disabilities
ISSN: 1753-0180
Article publication date: 1 December 2007
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are lifelong developmental disorders that are characterised by abnormalities in reciprocal social interaction and communication and stereotyped behaviours and repetitive interests (ICD‐10: World Health Organization, 1992). Although many people with ASD function without support in the community, outcome studies suggest that rates of employment and independent living are poor. Services often need to provide support in the areas of housing, social, occupational, leisure and emotional function. Additionally, ASDs can be associated with high rates of co‐morbid mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety and obsessive‐compulsive disorders. This paper aims to describe the current situation regarding clinical services and what is required from these services to address co‐morbid mental health needs in adults with an ASD.
Keywords
Citation
Ward, A. and Russell, A. (2007), "Mental health services for adults with autism spectrum disorders", Advances in Mental Health and Learning Disabilities, Vol. 1 No. 4, pp. 23-26. https://doi.org/10.1108/17530180200700039
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited