This project, embedded in the d'Arc Autism & ADHD research center of Prof. Hilde Guest at the university of Amsterdam, was led by former postdoc Iris Selten. Common mental health problems in autism comprise, for instance, depression, anxiety or psychosis. It is known that some people with autism receive professional help or treatment for these problems.
The first published study investigated individual differences in the intervention trajectories of autistic adults, by examining longitudinal patterns of therapy, counseling, and medication use in the Netherlands Autism Register (NAR). It showed that many, but not all, autistic individuals used mental health services for an extended period. However, there was considerable variability in the type, combination, and duration of intervention use.
The second study was a combined Delphi / Qualitative study into the use of relapse prevention plans in specialised care for autistic adults (Leo Kannerhuis) and is currently under review.
Ultimately, we hope that the results of these two studies will provide leads to improve clinical practice, for example when it comes to implementing tailored support and care for mental health problems in people with autism.
Collaborators:
- Prof. dr. Sander Begeer (Free University Amsterdam / NAR)
- Dr. Kim Jonkman (Free University Amsterdam / NAR)
- Leo Kannerhuis Amsterdam (part of Youz / Parnassia groep)