This year's International Women's Day is for ALL women and girls: Rights, Equality and Empowerment.
Let's talk about why there is an increase in women being late diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or with ADHD? For too long, there are misconceptions and biases that have led to an underrepresentation of women diagnosed ASD and ADHD.
This oversight has caused many women to remain undiagnosed until later in life.
History of the research
Traditionally the diagnostic criteria for ASD and ADHD were developed based on male patterns of behaviour, leaving females misunderstood or overlooked.
Social masking
Many women and girls adeptly learn to mimic neurotypical behaviours, masking their autistic traits and ADHD traits, delaying any identification or diagnosis.
Awareness and education
There is increased awareness and education which have led healthcare professionals to recognise that women have a unique presentation for ASD and ADHD.
Advocacy and support
Empowered by advocacy groups and online communities, women are seeking evaluations and sharing experiences on social media, leading to more diagnoses.
By understanding the unique challenges that women face, it's important to recognise of timely diagnosis and support for autistic women and women with ADHD.
Every woman and girl deserves to enjoy life with their basic rights, equality and to be empowered.
Empowerment begins with awareness.
Happy International Women's Day from all of us at Subtly Anxious. Empower yourself. Embrace your thoughts.