This systematic review by Khaleeq et al. (2025) evaluates various treatments for anxiety in children under 18 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), aiming to bridge a significant research gap compared to typically developing children. The authors analysed 33 studies published between 2014 and 2023, adhering to PRISMA guidelines to assess treatment effectiveness and potential adverse effects. Their findings indicate that Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), particularly adapted CBT, is the most evidence-based psychological intervention for managing anxiety in autistic children. In contrast, the review highlights a notable scarcity and inconclusive results for pharmacological treatments, with some reporting adverse effects. Alternative treatments yielded mixed results and often lacked robust methodologies. Ultimately, the review underscores the urgent need for further research, including the development of tailored anxiety measurement scales for children with ASD and studies with more diverse populations and longer follow-up periods.Source: A systematic review of the treatments of anxiety in children with autism spectrum disorder Australasian Psychiatry Volume 33, Issue 4, August 2025, Pages 742-755 © The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists 2025, Article Reuse Guidelines https://doi.org/10.1177/10398562251346614

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