Mindfulness-based intervention as a better alternative to medications in addressing co-occurring mental health problems for adults with ASD: systematic Review

Abstract

Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a higher incidence of comorbid disorders in comparison with their neurotypical peers. The most common of these disorders are anxiety and depression. Consequently, adults with ASD consistently report lower quality of life (QOL) compared to their peers. Empirical evidence on treatments targeting these mental conditions is, however, scarce. On the one hand, antipsychotic drugs are the most used treatment method, and they can be effective to some extent, yet they are found to have certain negative side effects and no reported impact on improving QOL. On the other hand, the approach using mindfulness-based therapies was found to be effective in addressing these mental conditions and enhancing the general well-being and QOL of the individuals in many different populations. This review will examine the current literature in both approaches regarding the effectiveness of both in helping adults with autism address anxiety and depression and improve their life quality.