Adaptation of a Behavioral Activation Treatment to Treat Depression in Autistic Adults

Treating Depression in Autistic Adults: A Feasibility Trial of an Adapted Behavioral Activation Program

The present study aims to adapt and evaluate the feasibility of the BeatIt behavioral activation intervention for people with intellectual disabilities and low mood to be implemented with autistic individuals, with and without intellectual disabilities.

The study has two specific aims:

1. Adapt BeatIt materials for use with autistic adults with and without Intellectual Disability (ID). Focus groups engaging key stakeholders will inform the adaptation of BeatIt for autistic adults (i.e., BeatIt-ASD). A stakeholder advisory team will provide input through the duration of the study.
2. Evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of BeatIt-ASD for autistic adults. This includes examining if the data demonstrate the feasibility and acceptability of the BeatIt-ASD program for autistic adults and provide preliminary evidence for behavioral change (i.e., increased engagement in meaningful activities and reduced depressive symptoms).

Data will demonstrate the feasibility and acceptability of the adapted BeatIt intervention for autistic adults and provide preliminary evidence for reduction of depression symptoms via regulation of routines and achievement of meaningful goals.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Have a confirmed diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
2. Have a best estimate diagnosis of clinically significant depressive symptoms by the study team. This will be based on DSM-5 criteria or DM-ID (Diagnostic Manual - Intellectual Disability).
3. Have a support person willing to participate
4. Live in New Jersey or New York, or be within travel distance to Rutgers University
5. Half of participants will have a best estimate diagnosis of mild to moderate intellectual disability and half will not have intellectual disability. This will be based on participant cognitive assessment and self and/or supporter report of adaptive function during the Baseline visit.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Are unable to speak and understand English fluently (because the instruments being investigated are currently only validated in English and the focus group and intervention will be delivered in English).
2. Are currently enrolled in another behavioral therapy or psychotherapy targeting depression. Participants will not be excluded if they are currently taking medication.