Identifying and Diagnosing Depression in Autistic Adults:
A Qualitative Study on Professional Practices
Study Three is Now Open
Study Three Overview
In Study Three, our objective is to understand how practitioners identify and diagnose depression in autistic adults. We aim to explore the signs and symptoms they observe during the assessment or treatment of depression and to examine the diagnostic approaches used in clinical practice.
Why is this important?
A greater understanding of how depression presents in autistic adults is essential for improving recognition and diagnosis. We aim to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice to enhance the well-being of autistic adults.
Methodology:
We are inviting practitioners to share their observations and experiences in identifying and diagnosing depression in autistic adults. This qualitative data will form the basis of our study.
What Are We Aiming to Achieve?
Part A: Observing Depression Presentations in Autistic Adults
Recognition of Depression Presentations: document the range of depression presentations practitioners observe, covering behavioural, cognitive, emotional, and somatic aspects for a comprehensive diagnostic perspective. As with studies 1 and 2, compared against the diagnostic criteria for depression.
Intellectual Disabilities: document any variations in symptom presentations observed in autistic adults with and without intellectual disabilities.
Gender-Specific Observations: explore potential gender differences in depression presentations among autistic adults.
Part B: Diagnostic Approaches and Considerations:
This section focuses on the methodologies practitioners employ and the factors considered during the diagnostic process:
Diagnostic Tools: collect information on the assessment measures practitioners use to diagnose depression in autistic adults.
Adapted Assessments: explore whether practitioners modify their diagnostic tools for autistic adults and why and how these tailored approaches inform their practice.
Overcoming Communication Barriers: to see if practitioners adjust assessments for those with communication or intellectual difficulties and the impact of these adjustments on the diagnostic process.
Gender-Sensitive Practices: whether gender considerations influence diagnostic practices, aiming to understand their role in depression assessment for autistic adults.
