Autism Speaks unveils new resource for the treatment of ADHD, anxiety and irritability in autism

People with autism are at higher risk of self-injury, aggression and other severe behaviors that can deeply impact their quality of life. Unfortunately, many families struggle to access effective care to address these behaviors. 

To bridge this gap, the Autism Speaks Autism Care Network (ACNet), a network of 20 hospitals and academic institutions around the U.S. and Canada, developed a new resource to improve screening, diagnosis and treatment for three common co-occurring conditions in autism: anxiety, ADHD and irritability. An ACNet survey shows that these conditions are most likely to contribute to severe behaviors in children with autism.

The new resource, Clinical Pathways and Tools for Optimizing Care and Outcomes for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), provides clinicians with a structured, evidence-informed approach to improving outcomes for their patients. It offers practical guidelines to support healthcare providers in the assessment and treatment of these conditions.

The Clinical Pathways Package represents a significant advancement in the management of co-occurring conditions in autism, providing clinicians and healthcare professionals with actionable, evidence-based tools to guide care. By implementing the treatment pathways in this resource, healthcare providers can enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve treatment outcomes and ensure a consistent standard of care for autistic children.

“This resource is an important step toward health equity for autistic people who often face significant barriers in accessing quality care,” says Andy Shih, Ph.D., chief science officer at Autism Speaks. “By providing clinicians with evidence-based guidelines, we are helping to close the gaps in diagnosis and treatment for co-occurring conditions like anxiety, ADHD and irritability. This resource ensures that healthcare providers are equipped to deliver consistent, high-quality treatment, regardless of where a family lives.”

Hospitals that have already integrated these Clinical Pathways into their practice have seen measurable improvements in the quality of life for autistic people and their families. With this new resource, the potential for better outcomes across the healthcare system is within reach.

Download the Clinical Pathways Package today to improve care for children with autism.