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Review
. 2018 Feb;13(1):31-37.
doi: 10.2217/fnl-2017-0030. Epub 2018 Jan 17.

Comorbid autism spectrum disorder and anxiety disorders: a brief review

Brian A Zaboski  1   1 , Eric A Storch  2   2
Affiliations
Review

Comorbid autism spectrum disorder and anxiety disorders: a brief review

Brian A Zaboski et al. Future Neurol. 2018 Feb.

Abstract

Appearing in 40% of the cases of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), comorbid anxiety presents unique challenges for practitioners by amplifying problem behaviors such as social skills deficits, resistance to change and repetitive behaviors. Furthermore, comorbid ASD/anxiety strains familial relationships and increases parental stress. Research indicates that the neurobiological interactions between anxiety and ASD require comprehensive assessment approaches, modified cognitive behavioral therapy and carefully managed pharmacological interventions. Meta-analyses indicate that cognitive behavioral therapy with exposure is an effective treatment option when adequately accounting for social, familial and cognitive variables. The purpose of this focused review is to update readers on the latest research advances in comorbid ASD and anxiety, including prevalence, assessment, psychosocial and pharmacological treatment.

Keywords: anxiety disorder; autism spectrum disorder; cognitive behavioral therapy; comorbid.

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Conflict of interest statement

Financial & competing interests disclosure This article was supported by a grant to the second author from the National Institutes of Health (1R01HD080096). The content is solely the responsibility of the author and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed. No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

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