Análise da comparação entre atividade física, níveis de ansiedade e depressão e função autonômica em responsáveis de crianças e adolescentes com transtorno do espectro autista –TEA

Abstract

Objective: To identify the effect of physical activity on cardiac stress, anxiety, and depression levels in parents or guardians of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Materials and methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive study with a qualitative and quantitative approach, approved by the Ethics Committee (Plataforma Brasil). The sample (n=60), for convenience, included one parent or guardian of children and adolescents (1 to 18 years old) diagnosed with ASD (GPT), treated at a therapeutic center in São Luís-MA between February and June 2024. As a control, parents or guardians of children and adolescents without ASD (GPST) were used. Participants without a confirmed diagnosis of ASD or with conditions that prevented participation were excluded. The Beck Anxiety Inventories (BAI) and Depression Inventories (BDI) were applied, in addition to the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ – short version). Heart rate variability (HRV) was assessed by a 12-lead electrocardiogram and analyzed using specific software (Wincardio®). Data were analyzed with appropriate statistical tests, adopting p < 0.05 as significant, and the effect size was calculated by Cohen’s. Statistical analyses were performed using Jamovi software. Results: The GPT and GPST groups were similar in terms of sex, age, BMI, and blood pressure. However, only GPT had cases of diabetes. The GPT had significantly higher levels of cardiac stress, symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition, GPT demonstrated lower engagement in physical activity, with a higher proportion of sedentary or irregularly active participants. A significant reduction in heart rate variability was also observed in GPT, with lower parasympathetic activity (HF), lower autonomic modulation (LF, VLF, Total Power), and higher sympathetic activation, indicating a pattern of chronic stress and low physiological resilience. Conclusion: The results indicate that parents of children with ASD present greater psychological vulnerability, less engagement in physical activity, and autonomic dysfunction associated with chronic stress compared to parents of children with typical development. These findings reinforce the need for interdisciplinary strategies for care and support for these caregivers' physical and mental health.