Like all mental conditions which cause people to behave differently from the norm, Aspergers is associated with depression. Depression can be caused by a number of things including;
There is a lot of research into the depression and ADHD or ADD (a common condition which exists alongside Aspergers)
There's not nearly as much information on depression from an Aspergers only standpoint.
Recent research...
(Tantam, D. (2000). Psychological disorder in adolescents and adults with Asperger syndrome. Autism)
...suggests that depression is common in individuals with Asperger syndrome with about 1 in 15 people with Asperger syndrome experiencing such symptoms. Personally, I think this figure is much, much higher and that the differences are related to how depression is seen by others (particularly the researchers) and how it handled by those who suffer from it. Remember that Aspies aren't always easy to read.
The aim of this post is to look at depression that is directly related to the Aperger's condition only. It's obviously going to take more than one post to get through this.
There are a number of factors an which are part of aspergers which would influence the onset of depression. These include as follows;
Unfortunately, this post is already getting long, so I'll discuss these lists in the next post.
In the meantime, here are some links which may be of interest;
**Szatmari et al (1989) studied a group of 24 children. He discovered that 8% of the children with Asperger syndrome and 10% of the children with high-functioning autism were diagnosed with OCD. This compared to 5 per cent of the control group of children without autism but with social problems. Thomsen el at (1994) found that in the children he studied, the OCD continued into adulthood.
- Social troubles because you do not seem to fit in
- Guilt or regret over past actions/outburst/meltdowns
- Overwhelming feelings and thoughts
- Anxiety and Panic Attacks
- Miscommunications / Misunderstandings
- Fatigue or Tiredness due either to the condition that all to the treatment of the condition (eg: Ritalin)
There is a lot of research into the depression and ADHD or ADD (a common condition which exists alongside Aspergers)
There's not nearly as much information on depression from an Aspergers only standpoint.
Recent research...
(Tantam, D. (2000). Psychological disorder in adolescents and adults with Asperger syndrome. Autism)
...suggests that depression is common in individuals with Asperger syndrome with about 1 in 15 people with Asperger syndrome experiencing such symptoms. Personally, I think this figure is much, much higher and that the differences are related to how depression is seen by others (particularly the researchers) and how it handled by those who suffer from it. Remember that Aspies aren't always easy to read.
The aim of this post is to look at depression that is directly related to the Aperger's condition only. It's obviously going to take more than one post to get through this.
There are a number of factors an which are part of aspergers which would influence the onset of depression. These include as follows;
- Very good long term memory
- Obsessive compulsion - (I wonder if this is simply be one of my conditions or if it really belongs in the core Aspergers definitions)**
- Obsession with completeness, order and patterns
- Difficulty reading of other people's body language expressions and tone (leading to misunderstandings)
- Unusual world view/Paradigm
Unfortunately, this post is already getting long, so I'll discuss these lists in the next post.
In the meantime, here are some links which may be of interest;
**Szatmari et al (1989) studied a group of 24 children. He discovered that 8% of the children with Asperger syndrome and 10% of the children with high-functioning autism were diagnosed with OCD. This compared to 5 per cent of the control group of children without autism but with social problems. Thomsen el at (1994) found that in the children he studied, the OCD continued into adulthood.
Comments
My repeative obsessive thoughts turn into that sadness and also when someone gets fusterated with me like my parents.
I don't even know how I feel sometimes.
When I can't learn from my mistakes as fast as everyone else.
I feel hopeless because it's how I'm made to make mistakes over and over without ending.
www.projectjulio.blogspot.com
this is my comedy blog I make so I, on some level, feel human and also publicly express how I see the world.
I don't know who can give me a "formal" diagnose of this syndrome if a Psychiatrist or a Psychologist, what do you think??
He's so up and down emotionally right now and from what I'm reading through other's coping with this disorder, you're reverberating what my son is saying.
I love him and want him to see he's not alone... there's no support groups for him or our family in our area. If anyone has any ideas, that would be great!
I know what you mean about info on adults with AS. I did find this book at Barnes & Noble: "Solutions for Adults with Asperger Syndrome" by Juanita P. Lovett
M3talhead@hotmail.co.uk
i will reply!!
I think alot of society treats aspies very badly. I dont seem to know a happy person with it, we're ethier bullied or secluded.
Perhaps I could have avoided the 3 divorces and numerous job-related problems I've experienced. I saw a number of therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists over the years, wanting to know why I didn't "feel" right, why I was not a good "fit" for the world around me.
Now, I'm always depressed (well, most of the time). I'm severely under-employed, and that of course can make you depressed. But I'm constantly reliving past mistakes, sometimes in great detail. The memories come unbidden, and they are currently my only constant companion.
For a while I found some relief. I was seeing a psychiatrist (the one who made the Asperger diagnosis) 3 or 4 time a year, and he had me on Effexor. My depression was under control, and there were no suicidal thoughts.
But now I am barely able to keep up the utility payments, and I cannot afford to see a doctor, let alone get any medication.
I'd like to hear more from adult Asperger patients. Most literature is about children or adolescents, and I don't feel anything is being done to help out an "old" guy like me.
I could go on and on about all my problems but I wont. I hope someday I am able to get some help but again I want everyone with similar problems to know there are many people out there who feel the same things you do.
Are Worth It! You Do have family or people around you that care! I would trade places with my son in a heartbeat, if I could take this pain away from him. I will see any and every doctor in the world until we find something to help him not have feelings of hopelessness. We knew he had a.s....and we thought he was dealing with it the best he could, but when he said he wanted to give up that just killed me inside! I started searching the web to see how others with a.s. and depression handle this or any advice that you can give a desperate family. We just want our son to be happy. Please give any suggestions or comments and remember that people do care. :) Thanks :)
At first he was relieved to finally know why he felt different but lately he seems extremely frustrated all the time.
My main concern is that in a couple of months we need to move from the house we are living in, my family does not know about his AS at my son's request and they don't understand why he is still living with me. He has had a 9 to 5 job he hated and has a Real Estate License like me. I think we could be great partners but I don't know if I am helping him or hurting him by not letting him fly "solo" as everyone around me suggests. He is very high performing but he gets very depressed and frustrated most of the time.
I need to decide if I should let him find a way to start facing life on his own or if it's ok to keep him with me and help him in every way I can like I've done so far...
Maybe we all could start a group in our own area that could get together for activities and support for the aspies and/or the parents and family, has anyone tried that?
If you are in South San Diego please send me an email at forourangels@yahoo.com to start a support group in this area.
Thank you!
An angel's mom
I'm about the same age (late 50's) and learned just a couple of months ago that I probably have AS. I'm guessing that most people who "know" me think I'm a relatively ordinary guy with a few quirks. I've been married to the same woman for 37 years, we've raised 5 children, and have always been able to provide a modest income for my family.
However, I know that I don't fit in with regular society at all, and it has caused me untold anguish and heartaches over the years, especially as I reflect on the effect it has had on our children.
Looking back over my life, I realize that one thing I have done (without understanding why) was to spend a lot of time walking. When I was working I would walk at lunch time so I wouldn't have to go to the cafeteria and eat with others. If my equipment would break down, I would go outside and walk. When I would get upset I would go outside and walk as long as possible.
When one our of children was in the hospital fighting for her life against an aggressive cancer, I would go outside and walk for hours. It wouldn't matter where I was, if the opportunity was there you'd probably find me out walking.
Walking allowed me to exercise and provided me with time outside, both of which are so important to good health, physically and mentally. It is very inexpensive, only requiring a decent pair of walking shoes and some clothes appropriate for the weather.
I know that simply going outside and walking doesn't solve all of my "problems", but I suspect that walking is the best medication that could have been prescribed for me if I had been diagnosed.
-Harry
Walking can be a great way to bring you back to reality, it allows you to let go of any worries you have.
I used to experience some amount of depression in my childhood, especially in my later school years. But more recently it has not been a problem.
Walking and meditation/yoga help me to be content with any situation.
To the mom who has an 18years son. My son was 17 when we found out he was suicidal and depressed. We tried therapy medication counselling and so on. Unfortunately nothing worked and on top of it the only person who could help him committed suicide. You might not want to hear this but I do know how do you feel and I just want to help you before it’s too late. My son ended his life a month ago the age of 21.When I read your story I taught you talk about my son because everything matches perfectly.
Smart, depressed not wanting to live.
As a father all I can say AS it’s a terrible illness.
How can I help you? ‘Were in terrible shape but we’ve to go on.
Talk to your son; try to find out about his feelings. Therapy, medication might help but that’s not enough. Find out what he’s passionate about and that way you can lead him out of depression. He might not want friends around but try; my son completely isolated himself from everybody.
I’m sorry I taught I can help you but the words just don’t come to me that easy. It’s just too painful.
Take care
Ia m 42 yo male who was diagnosed with AS at age 35. I like all of the other posts have suffered from depression and anxiety. The worst was around my late teens early 20's where the thought of suicide was present as a way of release. I still have those thoughts on a really bad day but now I recognise it as a poor solution to a re occurring issue.
Anyway what gets rid of the black dog? I have been on medication for depression and that lasted for a couple of months and I took myself off it. I found that I was a poor self medicator and the side effects made me erratic.
For me exercise was the the thing that got me levelled out. Having AS meant that I was no good with team sports but running, walking, swimming and cycling all helped. I have come across more aspie cyclists than anything else. One good thing about riding a bike is that you meet other bike riders who all talk about their favourite thing - Bikes! For me it has become one of my more social obsessions that is OK to talk about and I get my social interaction this way. I also keep myself fit which is a way of maintaining my self esteem.
With exercise I think that the endorphin hit and the ability to have time to sort out problems is the thing that works. My wife and I (before kids) found walking and talking was the best way of getting things out in the open and sorted.
I think that a lot of Aspies dwell and cycle over thoughts because they feel pressured to resolve them and have a perfect solution.
I feel for the parents and friends of young aspies facing depression. Maybe you cant beat it but you can find a way of living with it. With life there is hope.
So much of what people have posted here, I see in me.
Am struggling with major bout of depression. Lots of other issues that I just can't seem to deal with. Need help!
Does anyone know where I can go in St.Louis Mo area for diagnosis for aspergers?
Am on illinois medicade!
Please, serious replies only!
Thanks!
While I am a professional with a graduate degree, married with three chilren my career has been a series of bad news, setbacks, and occasional firings. While making a good income, I consider myself underemployed.
My marriage has become nothing more than a business relationship mainly due to her female change of life issues (the first 10-15 of the marriage happy to average). I have wanted to end it but it is too late at this stage of life and would break up my family.
The last 7 years I have dated strippers having had several of them as mistresses and done around 30 different women in this time. My current fav (been seeing her 3 years) danced at a club where I am VIP and is married and currently a law student (she is x HS cheerleader). I meet her several times a month, my contributions pay her mortgage. My income allows me to enjoy this strip club hobby or what they refer to as otc fun. I am a regular poster on a SC hobby related site - tuscl.net While I primarily concentrate on the fav I have rotated her with other girls for variety.
Professionally I work in accounting and operate an online business dealing in collectibles. Its profits help finance my strip clubbing hobby.
In 2004 I was diagnosed with depression and put on lexapro. I dropped lexapro cold turkey in 2008 as it caused an unacceptable male side effect - DE. The side evvect then went away and here have been no unfav consequenses of this plus I found that my strip clubbing hobby has essentially cured my depression.
I do not advertise fact to others I have AS or past suffering. I have improved over the years and when necessary use a made up story to explain any gaps. I do have some friends in my career and hobby related areas. Seeking friends in hobby related areas helps AS.
He needs therapy - I have been to therapists.
Most of the other posts leave hope for me.
Thanks.
Best Regards,
Jake
We have him in counseling with a AS specialist for kids. Finding his passions are key, and then focusing your time and efforts to make it happen. A lot of times they have the passion, but no know how on how to make it happen. Isolationism often gets in the way and retards progress.
With AS the goal is self realization, and the higher functioning kids actually learn to accept it, focus on their strengths, recognize their weaknesses, and continue to push forward. It's never comfortable but from what I understand self peace can happen.
As a parent I have had to change my entire paradigm of how my kid should be, and how as a parent I should react. Long gone are the days of hoping my kid will turn out to be an athlete or a social butterfly. Instead I hope my kid Just grows up happy, with some skill to make a living and be independent.
Any parent would be lying If they told you they had all the answers
keeping in mind the constant replaying of events in your head. major depressive disorder can lead to suicide. HOWEVER as magnified as our emotions are, and can be, i believe if we were going to,if we were going to, we would have.
another way to look at it is like this.
on a 1-10 scale 5 being average.
an average person would score a 5 in every aspect of there personality. HOWEVER i believe we are mentally min/maxed we score 1-10 with few 5's
the min/max theory.
I get quite emotional about this because I have been bullied and never quite fitted in most my life so I can imagine what it's like. Often think maybe I might have AS. I have some of the traits but it could be other stuff too.
What underlines my depression is that I set certain standards for myself and expect others to maintain them too.
I was brought up to believe that sharing was good, but find that as a species we tend to value those people who are or whose ancestors were thieves, liars and murderers.
I was taught to do well in school, get qualifications and go to University, but again as a species we value those who have nothing more to offer the world than throw a ball around or waggle their genitals at a camera while singing about a disco stick.
So humanity disappoints me.
There are people who feel sad about having Asperger's syndrome but there are many people who are happy about it too.
Genocide is not the answer to this question. In fact, Genocide is not the answer to ANY question.
A world without Asperger's syndrome is a world without Science, Art, True Emotions and Creativity. I doubt if any of us would like a world without it.
Ironically I have a son, who was diagnosed with autism before he was two and because I unknowingly suffered the same condition, I could never focus to benefit him as well as, I would have liked to. However, it always seemed I was exceptionally creative and excellent at immediate practical problem solving. In example, some things such as carpentry, operating software like photoshop and ArcGIS for the creation of Maps seem insanely easy. Other things such as math,social behavior and work ethic that was easy for others took intense study for me to begin to comprehend.
Quite frankly, I would be homeless if it were not for overgenerous parents (who probably secretly wanted to strangle me), my few friends that have helped me and a boyfriend who is over-tolerant and forgiving.
It is so frustrating, because I am highly intelligent, creative and capable, yet it seems like I'm always running in place. I'm hoping that I can still make something of my life, despite the late diagnosis. I'm only now beginning to understand who I am and why I am the way I am. I have been watching a lot of Temple Grandin's lectures, does anyone know of any other helpful resources?
Well I prefer AS anyway - would just like more people to be aspies. It would be more fun. Started a meetup group in my town for female aspies. I guess there are some fascinating people out there that I will get to meet :)
From the moment he was diagnosed, the constant reports from school about lack of cooperation and constant confrontation with teachers turned into a more understanding approach to his learning needs, however there is no consistent support for him and in any case he has always argued that he does not need academic support (he is high functioning but lack social skills and motivation.
I have never discussed the meaning of his diagnosis with him, not just because he would struggle to understand (giving his rigid thinking) but also because he has been very upset when some teachers or peers refer to him as “different” (which triggered his depression two years ago). He refuses to access special support from school arguing that he is not “retarded”. He sees himself as fully able and cannot see any difference between him and other students (he presents as such in some respects). Hence, I am in a dilemma thinking that it would be more damaging for him to be labelled with AS at this stage of his development and that he will be more ready to understand his condition when he is more mature. I would greatly appreciate your thoughts on this.
I'm 21
If you're new to forums, it's a good idea to browse around first to get a feel for the etiquette.
Also, i went through the social services system from beginning of memory to when i was adopted at 7. Foster parents and my family tried to raise me right, but somehow i simply viewed parents and family as people who had authority over me and were always pissed off and power tripping. Gave me a festering 'guilty' conscience that made me feel like a complete criminal for all my AS-related mistakes that made people call me a creep and hate me etc. Someone gets pissed, at me, i have a panic attack, then i am full of rage and contempt against that person. My 'conscience' is a pile of fucked up brain processes that attaches itself to people in my mind, and i more than once made the mistake of taking out my anger on others, just to make them feel how i felt. But that never worked.
I had a messed up relationship with a girl, who i fell in love with (everyone knows that when relationships explode, love then turns into a mental disease). She hurt me, i tried to make her feel guilty over time, i so desperately wanted that power trip; to see what it feels like to be NOT on the recieving end. But i grudgingly had to admit that never works.
Recently, i quit weed, even went to some NA meetings, I dropped my grudge against my ex, told her i was sorry for all the shit i put her through in retaliation. I thought by dropping the baggage, i could be free too. THAT FEELS LIKE A LIE. Because now i dropped my anger against her, the guilt came back even 10 fold. She is moving on and i want to do the same, however
my conscience just wants me to feel like shit for months. I feel like i lost the privilege and the chance to ever have an intimate relationship again. The guilt makes me cry sometimes.
Last year, when i was still mad at her, i got involved with smoking weed. I had trouble finding decent work; i felt guilty and like a bad person, and I was so sick of it. Weed took the guilt away, but I hid behind a cloud of thc smoke and developed a hostile attitude towards the world and those who made me feel like shit. Then my conscience made me feel even worse for smoking weed, and I withdrew from circles because i felt so worthless. I chose to quit because i was sick of being even more paranoid (i quit because i was paranoid of being arrested lol).
But i feel like i only stepped back into the oily guilt. I even tried to kill myself a few months back. impulsive, minimal effort, obviously did not succeed but i was horrified by what i tried to do. and i haven't attempted it since. nor do i plan to.
i feel like, growing up, i was stripped of my mental defenses, with my empathy being left open for the taking by others. That made me hate people with a passion.
i cant take much more of this guilt shit.