1
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Jargin SV. Psychopathological consequences of child abuse: Letter from Russia. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2024; 70:828-829. [PMID: 37937702 DOI: 10.1177/00207640231210118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
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2
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van den Boogert F, Sizoo B, Bouman YHA, Hoogendijk WJG, Roza SJ. Sensory processing and alcohol use in adults with autism spectrum disorder. Alcohol 2024; 114:25-30. [PMID: 37604321 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
The association between substance use and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is complex. Although sensory processing difficulties are highly prevalent in individuals with ASD, data on the association between sensory processing and substance use in ASD are limited. This study aimed to investigate the association between sensory processing patterns and alcohol use in adults with ASD. Kruskal-Wallis tests were performed on questionnaire data (Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile and Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test - Consumption) of 101 adults with ASD. Sensory processing difficulties are associated with alcohol use in adults with ASD. Differences in sensory processing between alcohol-based subgroups vary per specific sensory processing pattern: drinkers reported 6.5 to 8 points higher levels of low registration [χ2(2) = 12.408, p = .002, 99 % CI (.002.002)], non-hazardous drinkers reported 9 points higher levels of sensory sensitivity [χ2(2) = 6.868, p = .031, 99 % CI (.031, .032)], and hazardous drinkers reported 7.5 points higher levels of sensory seeking [χ2(2) = 6.698, p = .034, 99 % CI (.034, .035)], all in comparison with non-drinkers on scales ranging from 15 to 75. Our proof-of-concept study indicates that vulnerability in some individuals with ASD for substance use disorders might be explained by sensory processing difficulties. Whether alcohol is used as 'self-medication' or is associated with other neurobiological vulnerabilities needs further investigation in larger follow-up studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank van den Boogert
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus MC, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Research, Transfore, Nico Bolkesteinlaan 1, 7416 SB, Deventer, the Netherlands; Science & Treatment Innovation, Fivoor, Hofhoek 7, 3176 PD, Poortugaal, the Netherlands.
| | - Bram Sizoo
- Specialist Center for Developmental Disorders, Dimence, Nico Bolkesteinlaan 1, 7416 SB, Deventer, the Netherlands.
| | - Yvonne H A Bouman
- Department of Research, Transfore, Nico Bolkesteinlaan 1, 7416 SB, Deventer, the Netherlands.
| | - Witte J G Hoogendijk
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus MC, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Sabine J Roza
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus MC, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Netherlands Institute for Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology, Herman Gorterstraat 5, 3511 EW, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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3
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Pijnenburg LJ, Kaplun A, de Haan L, Janecka M, Smith L, Reichenberg A, Banaschewski T, Bokde ALW, Quinlan EB, Desrivières S, Grigis A, Garavan H, Gowland P, Heinz A, Ittermann B, Martinot JL, Martinot MLP, Nees F, Orfanos DP, Paus T, Poustka L, Hohmann S, Millenet S, Fröhner JH, Smolka MN, Walter H, Whelan R, Schumann G, Velthorst E. Autistic traits and alcohol use in adolescents within the general population. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023; 32:1633-1642. [PMID: 35318541 PMCID: PMC10460309 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-01970-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that autistic traits are associated with less frequent alcohol use in adolescence. Our study seeks to examine the relationship between autistic traits and alcohol use in a large adolescent population. Leveraging data from the IMAGEN cohort, including 2045 14-year-old adolescents that were followed-up to age 18, we selected items on social preference/skills and rigidity from different questionnaires. We used linear regression models to (1) test the effect of the sum scores on the prevalence of alcohol use (AUDIT-C) over time, (2) explore the relationship between autistic traits and alcohol use patterns, and (3) explore the specific effect of each autistic trait on alcohol use. Higher scores on the selected items were associated with trajectories of less alcohol use from the ages between 14 and 18 (b = - 0.030; CI 95% = - 0.042, - 0.017; p < 0.001). Among adolescents who used alcohol, those who reported more autistic traits were also drinking less per occasion than their peers and were less likely to engage in binge drinking. We found significant associations between alcohol use and social preference (p < 0.001), nervousness for new situations (p = 0.001), and detail orientation (p < 0.001). Autistic traits (social impairment, detail orientation, and anxiety) may buffer against alcohol use in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa J Pijnenburg
- GGZ Rivierduinen, Institute for Mental Health Care, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 5, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Anais Kaplun
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Lieuwe de Haan
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 5, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Magdalena Janecka
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, USA
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Lauren Smith
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Abraham Reichenberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, USA
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Tobias Banaschewski
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Square J5, 68159, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Arun L W Bokde
- Discipline of Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Erin Burke Quinlan
- Medical Research Council - Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sylvane Desrivières
- Medical Research Council - Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Antoine Grigis
- NeuroSpin, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Hugh Garavan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Penny Gowland
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Nottingham, University Park, NG, UK
| | - Andreas Heinz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Campus Charité Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Ittermann
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig, Germany
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Berlin, Germany
| | - Jean-Luc Martinot
- Maison de Solenn, Paris, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, INSERM Unit 1000 "Neuroimaging and Psychiatry", UniversityParis Sud, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Laure Paillère Martinot
- Maison de Solenn, Paris, France
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Frauke Nees
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Square J5, 68159, Mannheim, Germany
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, Square J5, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - Tomáš Paus
- Department of Psychology, Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M6A 2E1, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M6A 2E1, Canada
| | - Luise Poustka
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Göttingen, von-Siebold-Str. 5, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sarah Hohmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Square J5, 68159, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sabina Millenet
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Square J5, 68159, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Juliane H Fröhner
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroimaging Center, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael N Smolka
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroimaging Center, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Henrik Walter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Campus Charité Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Whelan
- School of Psychology and Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gunter Schumann
- Medical Research Council - Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- PONS Research Group, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Humboldt University, Campus Charite Mitte, Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Science and Technology of Brain-Inspired Intelligence (ISTBI), Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Eva Velthorst
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, USA
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, New York City, NY, USA
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Sinclair JMA, Aslan B, Agabio R, Anilkumar A, Brosnan M, Day E, Dowling NA, Flood C, Grant JE, Halliday R, Hofvander B, Howes L, Moseley R, Myers B, O'Connor V, Shaya G, Thomas S, Robinson J, Chamberlain SR. Identifying the most important research, policy and practice questions for substance use, problematic alcohol use and behavioural addictions in autism (SABA-A): A priority setting partnership. Compr Psychiatry 2023; 124:152393. [PMID: 37210935 PMCID: PMC7614597 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2023.152393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autistic people are more likely to report problematic alcohol and other substance use when compared to the general population. Evidence suggests that up to one in three autistic adults may have an alcohol or other substance use disorder (AUD/SUD), although the evidence base for behavioural addictions is less clear. Autistic people may use substances or engage in potentially addictive behaviours as a means of coping with social anxiety, challenging life problems, or camouflaging in social contexts. Despite the prevalence and detrimental effects of AUD, SUD and behavioural addictions in community samples, literature focusing on the intersection between autism and these conditions is scarce, hindering health policy, research, and clinical practice. METHODS We aimed to identify the top 10 priorities to build the evidence for research, policy, and clinical practice at this intersection. A priority-setting partnership was used to address this aim, comprising an international steering committee and stakeholders from various backgrounds, including people with declared lived experience of autism and/or addiction. First, an online survey was used to identify what people considered key questions about Substance use, alcohol use, or behavioural addictions in autistic people (SABA-A). These initial questions were reviewed and amended by stakeholders, and then classified and refined to form the final list of top priorities via an online consensus process. OUTCOMES The top ten priorities were identified: three research, three policy, and four practice questions. Future research suggestions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Betul Aslan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Roberta Agabio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, Section of Cagliari, National Research Council, Italy
| | | | - Mark Brosnan
- Centre for Applied Autism Research, University of Bath, UK
| | - Ed Day
- Institute of Mental Health, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Nicki A Dowling
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia; Melbourne Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Jon E Grant
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Björn Hofvander
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Denmark
| | | | - Rachel Moseley
- Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research council, South Africa; Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | - Shane Thomas
- Vice Chancellor's Office, Federation University, Australia; Centre for Research on Ageing, Health and Wellbeing, Australian National University, Australia
| | - Janine Robinson
- Chitra Sethia Autism Centre, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Fulbourn, Cambridge, UK
| | - Samuel R Chamberlain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.
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5
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Rothman EF, Graham Holmes L, Brooks D, Krauss S, Caplan R. Reasons for alcohol use and non-use by underage U.S. autistic youth: A qualitative study. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:213-225. [PMID: 35499489 PMCID: PMC9626389 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221091319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT What is already known about the topic? Hazardous alcohol use is when a person's drinking puts them at increased risk for negative events (e.g. health problems or car crashes). Some studies show that autistic people may be at greater risk for hazardous alcohol use than non-autistic people, while other studies have found that hazardous alcohol use is less common among autistic people than non-autistic people. We need to learn why autistic underage youth choose to drink alcohol or not. The goal of this study was to learn from US autistic youth about their attitudes and behavior related to alcohol. Forty autistic youth aged 16-20 years old were interviewed.What this article adds? Youth described several reasons why they choose to drink alcohol, including feeling like non-autistic people are more accepting when drinking, that it puts them in a less irritable or bored mood, helps them cope with problems, and helps them fit in. Reasons for not drinking alcohol include worries about becoming addicted, medication interactions, not liking the taste, fear of experiencing hangover and other health problems, and concern about acting foolish when drunk.Implications for practice, research, or policy Results reveal that hazardous alcohol use in autistic adults could have its roots in underage experiences that give autistic youth temporary relief from social anxiety, feeling lonely, and challenges with sensory processing. Right now, there are no evidence-based alcohol prevention programs in the United States for autistic people. One or more such programs may be needed. The results from this study could be used to adapt existing programs for non-autistic youth to the unique needs and risk factors of autistic youth.
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6
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Brosnan M, Adams S. Adapting Drug and Alcohol Therapies for Autistic Adults. AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD 2022; 4:214-223. [PMID: 36606157 PMCID: PMC9645670 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2021.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background Autistic people may be at a higher risk of drug and alcohol misuse than the general population. Autistic people, however, are under-represented within drug and alcohol support services. This is the first survey of drug and alcohol therapists' perceptions of current service provision for autistic clients and recommendations for reasonable adjustments that therapists can make to enhance successful outcomes. Methods We conducted an online survey of 122 drug and alcohol therapists, exploring therapists' demographics, training and experience with autistic clients, approaches and adaptations used with autistic clients, and therapists' confidence with autistic clients. Within two focus groups, 11 members of the autistic and broader autism (e.g., family members, professionals) communities reflected on the reasonable adjustments reported by therapists. Results Most therapists had autistic clients and most therapists had received no autism-specific training. Alcohol misuse was the most common presenting issue, and most therapists reported that treatment outcomes were less favorable for autistic clients than for other groups. Therapists perceived that barriers to successful outcomes were (1) a lack of autism-specific training, (2) a need to adapt therapy for autistic clients, and (3) a lack of shared perspective between the therapist and the autistic client. Previous research has identified a range of reasonable adaptations and, when asked, therapists were moderately confident in their ability to deliver these. Members of the autistic and broader autism communities coproduced guidance detailing how therapists can best adapt their practice for autistic clients including how to structure sessions and the language to use within sessions. Conclusion This study highlights a need for practical and theoretical training for drug and alcohol therapists to support successful adaptation to current service provision for autistic clients and to develop a shared perspective on the desired aims and outcomes of the therapeutic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Brosnan
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Sally Adams
- School of Psychology, Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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7
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Roux AM, Tao S, Marcus S, Lushin V, Shea LL. A national profile of substance use disorder among Medicaid enrollees on the autism spectrum or with intellectual disability. Disabil Health J 2022; 15:101289. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2022.101289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Hildebrand Karlén M, Stålheim J, Berglund K, Wennberg P. Autistic Personality Traits and Treatment Outcome for Alcohol Use Disorders. J Nerv Ment Dis 2021; 209:665-673. [PMID: 33966015 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The importance of personality traits for the outcome of psychiatric treatment, including treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), has been widely acknowledged. Also, research on autism spectrum disorders has evolved in recent years, emphasizing that the behavioral traits within these neuropsychiatric disorders exist on a dimension both within and outside the boundaries of psychopathology. In the present study, the relationship between personality traits associated with autistic functioning and level of alcohol use among patients before and after concluded AUD treatment was investigated. The participants (n = 165, diagnosed with AUD) were part of a longitudinal project on AUD treatment. Data from personality questionnaires (Structured Clinical Interview of Personality Disorders II and Temperament and Character Inventory) were used to assess autistic personality traits (APTs) based on behavior within Wing's triad, which were related to background and treatment outcome. The chosen APT items illustrated a personality functioning with an emphasis on social interaction and rigidity. Only certain included questions were indicative of still having a problematic drinking pattern 2.5 years after treatment entry, which adhered to phobic, obsessive-compulsive, and schizoid personality traits, as well as rigidity/stubbornness. Albeit with modest influence, the degree of APTs was associated with heavier drinking at treatment entry, and symptoms relating to social interaction and rigidity were associated with still having a problematic drinking pattern 2.5 years after treatment entry. A higher degree of such traits may result in having problems taking advice from others and establishing treatment alliance, important parts of treatment efficacy, making assessment of such traits relevant to clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Peter Wennberg
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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9
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Bowri M, Hull L, Allison C, Smith P, Baron-Cohen S, Lai MC, Mandy W. Demographic and psychological predictors of alcohol use and misuse in autistic adults. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 25:1469-1480. [PMID: 34232103 PMCID: PMC8264632 DOI: 10.1177/1362361321992668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Alcohol use and misuse are associated with a variety of negative physical, psychological and social consequences. The limited existing research on substance use including alcohol use in autistic adults has yielded mixed findings, with some studies concluding that autism reduces the likelihood of substance use and others suggesting that autism may increase an individual's risk for substance misuse. This study investigated demographic and psychological predictors of alcohol use and misuse in a sample of 237 autistic adults. An online survey was used to obtain data on demographic information, autistic traits, depression, generalised anxiety, social anxiety, mental well-being, social camouflaging and alcohol use. The sample was divided into three groups (non-drinkers, non-hazardous drinkers and hazardous drinkers) in order to investigate associations between alcohol use and demographic factors, autistic traits, mental health variables and social camouflaging. Our results demonstrated a U-shaped pattern among autistic adults, with non-drinkers and hazardous drinkers scoring higher than non-hazardous drinkers on levels of autistic traits, depression, generalised anxiety and social anxiety. Autistic non-drinkers were less likely to be male and had more autistic traits. Gender and level of autistic traits may be the most significant factors in predicting alcohol use in the autistic community.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- University of Cambridge, UK
- University of Toronto, Canada
- National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine
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Haasbroek H, Morojele N. A Systematic Literature Review on the Relationship Between Autism Spectrum Disorder and Substance Use Among Adults and Adolescents. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-021-00242-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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11
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Kaltenegger HC, Doering S, Gillberg C, Wennberg P, Lundström S. Low prevalence of risk drinking in adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum problems. Addict Behav 2021; 113:106671. [PMID: 33080544 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have high rates of "comorbidity". Research on concurrent substance use (disorder) in ASD, however, is scarce and findings have been inconsistent. This study aims at assessing the prevalence of risk drinking in adolescent and young adult twins with and without autism spectrum problems. Data from a Swedish longitudinal nationwide twin study were analyzed. Across three age groups of 15- (N = 10,050), 18- (N = 7,931) and 24-year-olds (N = 2,882) prevalence rates of risk drinking were compared between twins with and without an ASD proxy diagnosis and between different ASD subgroups based on comorbid proxies for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and/or Learning Disorder (LD). ASD, ADHD, and LD were assessed using the Autism-Tics, ADHD, and other Comorbidities inventory (A-TAC), and risk drinking was captured by the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT; age 18 and 24) and another set of self-report questions (age 15). In each age group, the prevalence of risk drinking in ASD was lower than in individuals without ASD, yet increasing continuously with age. Exploratory subgroup ASD analyses showed a trend towards risk drinking being more common among individuals with co-existing ADHD or LD problems than among those without "comorbidity", although sample sizes were too small to draw any certain conclusions. This study indicates low prevalence of risk drinking in adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum problems and highlights the need for further research on alcohol use in individuals with ASD and comorbid disorders.
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12
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Helverschou SB, Brunvold AR, Arnevik EA. Treating Patients With Co-occurring Autism Spectrum Disorder and Substance Use Disorder: A Clinical Explorative Study. SUBSTANCE ABUSE-RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2019; 13:1178221819843291. [PMID: 31024216 PMCID: PMC6472168 DOI: 10.1177/1178221819843291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background: Substance use disorders (SUDs) have been assumed to be rare in individuals
with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Recent research suggests that the rates
of SUD among individuals with ASD may be higher than assumed although
reliable data on the prevalence of SUD in ASD are lacking. Typical
interventions for SUD may be particularly unsuitable for people with ASD but
research on intervention and therapy are limited. Methods: This study addresses ways of improving services for individuals with ASD and
SUD by enhancing the competence of professionals in ordinary SUD outpatient
clinics. Three therapists were given monthly ASD education and group
supervision. The participants were ordinary referred patients who wanted to
master their problems with alcohol or drugs. Four patients, all men
diagnosed with ASD and intelligence quotient (IQ) ⩾ 70 completed the
treatment. The participants were given cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
modified for their ASD over a minimum of 10 sessions. The therapies lasted
between 8 and 15 months. Standardised assessments were conducted pre- and
post-treatment. Results: Post-treatment, 2 participants had ended their drug and alcohol abuse
completely, 1 had reduced his abuse, and 1 still had a heavy abuse of
alcohol. Physical well-being was the most prevalent reported positive aspect
of drug or alcohol use, whereas the experience of being left out from social
interaction was the most frequent negative aspects of intoxication. Conclusions: CBT may represent a promising treatment option for individuals with ASD and
SUD. The results suggest that patients’ symptoms can be reduced by providing
monthly ASD education and group supervision to therapists in ordinary SUD
outpatient clinics. This group of patients need more sessions than other
client groups, the therapy has to be adapted to ASD, ie, direct,
individualised, and more extensive. Moreover, the patients need
psychoeducation on ASD generally, social training, and support to organise
several aspects of their lives and some patients need more support than can
be provided in an outpatient clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sissel Berge Helverschou
- NevSom - Norwegian Centre of Expertise for Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Hypersomnias, Department of Rare Disorders, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anette Ræder Brunvold
- SUD Outpatient Clinic, Department of Addiction Treatment, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Espen Ajo Arnevik
- Section for Addiction Research, Department of Addiction Treatment, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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13
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Dahlhaus R. Of Men and Mice: Modeling the Fragile X Syndrome. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:41. [PMID: 29599705 PMCID: PMC5862809 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is one of the most common forms of inherited intellectual disability in all human societies. Caused by the transcriptional silencing of a single gene, the fragile x mental retardation gene FMR1, FXS is characterized by a variety of symptoms, which range from mental disabilities to autism and epilepsy. More than 20 years ago, a first animal model was described, the Fmr1 knock-out mouse. Several other models have been developed since then, including conditional knock-out mice, knock-out rats, a zebrafish and a drosophila model. Using these model systems, various targets for potential pharmaceutical treatments have been identified and many treatments have been shown to be efficient in preclinical studies. However, all attempts to turn these findings into a therapy for patients have failed thus far. In this review, I will discuss underlying difficulties and address potential alternatives for our future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Dahlhaus
- Institute for Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer Centre, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Polysubstance and Behavioral Addictions in a Patient with Bipolar Disorder: Role of Lifetime Subthreshold Autism Spectrum. Case Rep Psychiatry 2018; 2018:1547975. [PMID: 29682383 PMCID: PMC5842737 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1547975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This case report draws attention to the potential relevance of undetected autism spectrum symptoms in a bipolar patient with high work functioning showing a peculiar addictive profile with impulsive and antisocial behaviors. A 23-year-old man with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder (BD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) was hospitalized at the Psychiatric Clinic of the University of Pisa for diuretics and β-2 adrenergic agonist abuse in a remission phase of benzodiazepines and substance abuse. He reported a history of behavioral addictions in the framework of a global high work functioning with particular skills in computer science. When assessed for adult autism spectrum symptoms, despite not fulfilling a DSM-5 diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), he reported a score of 93/240 at the Ritvo Autism and Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-r) and of 88/160 at the Adult Autism Subthreshold Spectrum (AdAS Spectrum), both indicative of ASD. We argue the possible role of adult subthreshold autism spectrum features, generally disregarded in adult psychiatry, in the peculiar addictive profile developed by this patient with BD that may deserve appropriate treatment.
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Arnevik EA, Helverschou SB. Autism Spectrum Disorder and Co-occurring Substance Use Disorder - A Systematic Review. SUBSTANCE ABUSE-RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2016; 10:69-75. [PMID: 27559296 PMCID: PMC4990150 DOI: 10.4137/sart.s39921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with co-occurring autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and substance use disorder (SUD) require special attention from clinical services. Screening for this co-occurrence is not generally an integral part of routine clinical assessments, and failure to identify and understand this group of patients may contribute to a worsening of their symptoms and/or an increase in drug abuse. Thus, there is a need to review the evidence base on patients with co-occurring ASD and SUD in order to enhance clinical practice and future research. METHODS We reviewed all identified papers on patients with co-occurring ASD and SUD. The focus of the review was on epidemiology, patient characteristics, function of drug use, and the effect of current interventions. RESULTS A total of 18 papers were included in the analysis. Eleven papers were based on epidemiological studies, although only one study reported the prevalence of ASD in an SUD population. Two papers explored the role of personality, three papers studied subgroups of individuals serving prison for violent or sexual crimes, and one paper explored the function of drugs in the ASD patient group. There were no studies testing specific treatment interventions. CONCLUSIONS In most of the treatment settings studied, there were relatively few patients with co-occurring ASD and SUD, but due to differences in study samples it was difficult to establish a general prevalence rate. The one consistent finding was the lack of focused treatment studies. There is clearly a need for research on interventions that take account of the special needs of this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Espen Ajo Arnevik
- National Advisory Unit on SUD Treatment, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.; Institute of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sissel Berge Helverschou
- NevSom - Norwegian Centre of Expertise for Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Hypersomnias, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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