Lower help-seeking intentions and subsequent depressive symptoms among adolescents with high autistic traits: A population-based cohort study

BackgroundAdolescents with high autistic traits in the general population are at increased risk of depression. Despite the importance of help-seeking for early intervention, evidence on help-seeking intentions among this population is scarce. AimsTo examine the help-seeking intentions and preferences for depression by the level of autistic traits in adolescents, and test how help-seeking intentions mediate the association between autistic traits and depressive symptoms. MethodParticipants were from the Tokyo Teen Cohort, a population-based cohort in Japan. They were classified into two groups according to parent-rated autistic traits measured by the short-version of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient ([≥]6 as AQhigh). Help-seeking intentions and preferences were assessed at age 12 using a depression vignette. Depressive symptoms were self-rated at age 14 using the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire. Data were analysed using multivariable regression analysis and structural equation modelling. ResultsOf the 2,505 adolescents in the study, 200 (8%) were classified as AQhigh. In the AQhigh-group, 40% of the adolescents reported not having help-seeking intentions, although 93% recognised the need and 97% had someone to rely on. Parents of the AQhigh-group also reported fewer help-seeking intentions. The AQhigh-group was associated with an increased risk of not having help-seeking intentions (OR 1.83, 95%CI 1.35-2.49), which explained 19% of the above association. ConclusionsLower help-seeking intentions among adolescents with high autistic traits partially explained their increased risk for subsequent depressive symptoms. Interventions to promote help-seeking intentions among this population should involve both adolescents and their parents and ideally be provided before adolescence.