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Suggest Treatment For Poor Social Skills In A Person With Asperger Syndrome

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Posted on Mon, 24 Oct 2016
Question: I believe my husband 68 years old has Asperger Syndrome. He has extremely poor social skills, avoids them at all cost but will occasionally go if I am with him, prefers to be alone always, even with our children and grandchildren, his voice tone is critical and yet he swears it isn't. He looks NO ONE in the eyes ever. He suffers from depression and is sensitive to loud music, beats, drums, etc. Temporarily finds a hobby and goes all out but in a year or less, he's done. Currently he reads and watches sports on tv; obviously, both loner activities. He does enjoy shopping (I don't.) Wants to be told as far in advance of activities or plans for the day. Does not do well if I "spring" something on him. As a child, this of course, was not a known syndrome. We have been married 47 years and I believe he is getting worse. He did serve 2 tours in Vietnam and was a policeman for 29 years. Of course, riding in the police car aided him in being alone. Where do I turn for help for him? For me?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Could be depression

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I am Dr Mittal.
I have read your message.
I think I can help you.

First, the symptoms that you have mentioned can very well be explained by depression itself. So I would suggest that you get the antidepressants up dosed first. You have mentioned as much yourself.

Second, the only thing that would have definitely suggested a Aspergers diagnosis needs a childhood history , either his or his gene lines. Now your grand child has issues, but since he's not related biologically, it would not add up.

I think you should first get antidepressants dose changed by a psychiatry specialist. This is necessary because many of these medicines can further up the symptoms.

Once the dose of antidepressants is well established then we can consider the possibility of another diagnosis.

Best of luck. Dr Mittal
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Saumya Mittal (2 hours later)
Thank you
doctor
Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (5 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Best wishes

Detailed Answer:
Best of luck.
Dr Mittal
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Saumya Mittal

Diabetologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 2897 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Poor Social Skills In A Person With Asperger Syndrome

Brief Answer: Could be depression Detailed Answer: Hi, I am Dr Mittal. I have read your message. I think I can help you. First, the symptoms that you have mentioned can very well be explained by depression itself. So I would suggest that you get the antidepressants up dosed first. You have mentioned as much yourself. Second, the only thing that would have definitely suggested a Aspergers diagnosis needs a childhood history , either his or his gene lines. Now your grand child has issues, but since he's not related biologically, it would not add up. I think you should first get antidepressants dose changed by a psychiatry specialist. This is necessary because many of these medicines can further up the symptoms. Once the dose of antidepressants is well established then we can consider the possibility of another diagnosis. Best of luck. Dr Mittal