title: Group cognitive behavioural therapy program shows potential in reducing symptoms of depression and stress among young people with ASD.
abstract: We examined the efficacy of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) delivered in groups on the reduction of symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress in young people on the autism spectrum. Utilising a quasi-experimental design, comparisons were made between individuals allocated to a group intervention program and individuals allocated to a waitlist. Following the intervention program, participants who were initially symptomatic reported significantly lower depression and stress scores on the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales in comparison to individuals on the waitlist. There was no significant change in anxiety related symptoms. The benefits were maintained at 3 and 9 month follow-up. Our findings demonstrate the potential of CBT in a small group setting for assisting young people with ASD who have symptoms of depression and stress.
authors.affiliation: School of Psychology, Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing Research, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia, jane.mcgillivray@deakin.edu.au.
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: McGillivray
authors.forename: H T
authors.initials: HT
authors.lastname: Evert
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001007:Anxiety / Q000628:therapy*; D020817:Asperger Syndrome / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D003863:Depression / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000628:therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult