A Metacognitive Group Therapy of Depression and Anxiety in Youth With Autism

Launched by UPPSALA UNIVERSITY · May 28, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking to see how effective a special group therapy is for young people aged 15 to 18 who have both autism and experience symptoms of anxiety or depression. The therapy is designed to help participants understand and manage their thoughts better, which can improve their mental health. The trial will take place at a psychiatric clinic in Stockholm and will involve 10 group sessions. Researchers want to learn about how well participants stick with the program, how they feel about the treatment, and if it actually helps reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, as well as improve their overall quality of life.

To take part in this study, young people must be between 15 and 18 years old, seeking help at the clinic, and have a diagnosis of anxiety or depression along with autism. They should also be able to speak Swedish well enough to participate. However, those with certain other conditions, like severe mood disorders or high risk of self-harm, are not eligible. Participants can expect to join a supportive group environment, share experiences, and receive guidance aimed at helping them feel better. It's important to note that this study is not currently recruiting participants, but it will soon be looking for individuals who meet the criteria.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age of 15 to 18 years
• • Seeking medical care PRIMA psychiatric clinic for children and youth in Stockholm
• • Diagnoses of anxiety disorder or depression as well as autism established in a clinical interview
• • Mastering the Swedish language enough to take part of the treatment
• • Willingness/ability to participate after receiving information about what participation entails
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Assessed to meet one of the following diagnoses: Bipolar syndrome, alcohol use syndrome, substance use syndromes, psychotic symptoms and affective syndromes with psychotic symptoms and antisocial personality disorder.
• • Assessed to have a high suicide risk.
• • Assessed to have extensive self-harm behavior or moderate to high risk of such.
• • Participating in other psychological treatment or about to start such treatment during the time interval of the study.
• • Has not had stable medication in the last month or is planning a deposit/medication adjustment during the time interval of the study.