A new study suggests that one in five autistic adults may have an anxiety disorder, making them more than twice as likely as neurotypical individuals to receive an anxiety diagnosis.
The study, which is one of the largest to explore the prevalence of anxiety in autistic adults, found that their non-autistic siblings are also more likely to receive an anxiety diagnosis compared to the general population.
The study examined specific anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder and panic disorder. The research highlights the need for clinicians and caregivers to closely monitor anxiety in autistic adults, as it often goes unrecognized.
The study also suggests that genes or shared environmental factors may contribute to the overlap between autism and anxiety.
Future research aims to understand why anxiety is so prevalent among autistic individuals and develop improved methods of assessment and treatment.
The original article can be found here.
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