TITLE:
Comorbid Mental Health Disorders in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Genetic, Neurological, and Environmental Perspectives
AUTHORS:
Yuanyuan Liu
KEYWORDS:
ASD, Comorbid Mental Health, Genetic Pathways, Neurological Factors, Gene-Environment Interactions
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.14 No.3,
March
19,
2026
ABSTRACT: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders. The co-occurrence of mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), in individuals with ASD is alarmingly high and significantly exacerbates the core symptoms of autism, leading to increased functional impairment and reduced quality of life. This review synthesizes current research on the prevalence, genetic and neurological underpinnings, and environmental factors contributing to these comorbidities in ASD. The research explores how shared genetic pathways, including mutations in the SHANK3 and SLC6A4 genes, contribute to the overlapping symptomatology of ASD and its comorbidities. Additionally, it highlights the role of epigenetic mechanisms and gene-environment interactions in modulating the expression of these disorders. Neurological abnormalities, such as altered brain structure and functional connectivity, particularly in the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus, are also discussed as key factors in the manifestation of comorbid mental health conditions. The review underscores the critical importance of early intervention and resilience-building strategies, emphasizing the need for multidisciplinary care models that integrate behavioral therapies, pharmacological treatments, and emerging technologies such as virtual reality and neuromodulation. By addressing the complex interplay between genetic, neurological, and environmental factors, tailored treatment approaches can be developed to improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals with ASD and comorbid mental health disorders.