Asperger's Depression Treatment

Asperger's syndrome is a disorder affecting a child's ability to interact and socialize with other people. The disorder is grouped under the autism umbrella because of the lack of social skills, but it generally is considered on the mild side of autism. Depression may present itself because of an inability to communicate with others. Treatments are available to help those afflicted with Asperger's depression.

Social Skills Training

• Contact your school to alert teachers that your child has Asperger's syndrome so they will be aware of her social awkwardness and why she may not look them in the eye when addressing them. Ask if the school has any special programs for children with social and depression problems.
  Find group or individual counseling to help with your child's interaction with other students. A group of other people with the same disorder may help him come out of his shell. Counseling can help encourage him to use gestures, tone of voice and eye contact to communicate with others.

Behavior Therapy

• Take your child to a counselor who specializes in behavior therapy to help with angry outbursts or obsessive disorders that are associated with Asperger's. Cognitive behavior therapy teaches your child to cope with social situations by having him refocus his attention on something positive when confronted with an event that makes him anxious. Your child will learn strategies to help her cope with social situations. Adults with Asperger's depression find relief with group or individual counseling, helping them learn how to relate to different people or situations.

Medications

• No medication can cure Asperger's syndrome, but medicines are available to help with anxiety and depression. Talk to your doctor if you or your child has difficulty responding to others, is feeling despondent or depressed or has an intense unhealthy obsession with things such as scores or schedules. Antidepressant medications such as Prozac or Zoloft help lift moods and provide clarity of thought. Anti-anxiety drugs calm frayed nerves and may help with an obsessive-compulsive disorder associated with Asperger's. Monitor medications closely, as your doctor may need to adjust dosages.