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PDA Society’s 2023 ‘Being Understood’ survey. Key messages • PDA people of all ages are experiencing high levels of mental distress and mental health challenges, including: anxiety, depression, isolation and loneliness, low self-esteem, self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is conceptualized as a profile on the autism spectrum characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and expectations due to high anxiety and drive for autonomy.
Anxiety and Depression. Judy estimated that the number of people with PDA also suffering with anxiety is higher than the published figures cited for those with autism across the board which is 70% of people.
For some, understanding PDA and putting coping strategies in place enables their emotional wellbeing; others have been prescribed medication for anxiety, depression, OCD etc.; for many it is a combination of both that helps them stay well.
Mean startle reflex responses during standard fear imagery by principal diagnostic group (PDA=panic disorder with agoraphobia; GAD=generalized anxiety disorder). Imagery responses are standardized to the distribution of responses during intertrial intervals (mean ITI response magnitude=50).
Common mental health concerns in individuals with PDA One aspect which has become clear are the types and frequency of mental health difficulties experienced by this group: social anxiety (OCD, Panic disorder) depression social withdrawal (often attributed to schizophrenia) bi-polar presentation
9 sty 2024 · Kids with the PDA profile exhibit pervasive anxiety around control and persistent demand for autonomy. PDA neuroception keeps children hypervigilant, perceiving limits to autonomy as threats. Hence, they tend to “fight or fawn”.
