Asperger's Syndrome Increases Risk of Suicide

Adults with Asperger's Syndrome are at a higher risk for suicide, according to a study by Cambridge University. The study of 374 people with Asperger's Syndrome, discovered that these individuals were 9 times more likely to think about suicide. In addition, over one-third of the study participants had planned or attempted suicide.

Credit:  Microsoft

Depression is a known risk factor for suicide and it is common among people with Asperger’s Syndrome. “Adults with Asperger syndrome often suffer with secondary depression due to social isolation, loneliness, social exclusion, lack of community services, under-achievement and unemployment," said lead scientist Prof Simon Baron-Cohen, from the Autism Research Centre at Cambridge University. 

There is good news, as this risk is preventable according to Baron-Cohen. “Their depression and risk of suicide are preventable with the appropriate support. This study should be a wake-up call for the urgent need for high quality services, to prevent the tragic waste of even a single life," said Baron-Cohen.

Everyone on the autism spectrum is susceptible to depression according to Carol Povey, director of the National AutisticSociety’s Centre for Autism. Povey said:

 “This important study highlights the struggles that too many people with autism, including Asperger syndrome, unnecessarily face. The communication and interaction difficulties people on the autism spectrum experience can make them particularly vulnerable to social isolation, which in turn can lead to mental health issues and suicidal thoughts. Two-thirds of adults with autism and Asperger syndrome in a recent NAS survey told us they have felt depressed because of loneliness. “With the right support in place, people with the condition can play an active part in their communities and have perfectly good mental health - just like anybody else. Mental health issues should be taken seriously in people with autism and not seen as an inevitable part of the condition.”

For information about spotting the signs of depression and suicide risk please see:

Spotting the signs of depression to ensure early treatmentand reduce suicide deaths

Spotting Suicide Risks Among Young People

The study, “Suicidal ideation and suicide plans or attempts in adults with Asperger's syndrome attending a specialist diagnostic clinic: aclinical cohort study,” is published in The Lancet Psychiatry.

Sources:

Suicidal ideation and suicide plans or attempts in adultswith Asperger's syndrome attending a specialist diagnostic clinic: a clinicalcohort study

Asperger adults more suicidal, according to Cambridge studyled by Simon Baron-Cohen

©Mary M Conneely T/A Advocacy in Action