By Kathleen Schubert, Actually Autistic
Hey there, lovely readers! Did you know autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is often missed in girls and women? That's right, while ASD is commonly associated with boys and men, many girls and women with ASD are often not diagnosed until much later in life. So, why is this happening? Let's take a look at some of the reasons why women struggle to get a diagnosis of autism.
First off, the symptoms of ASD in girls and women can be different from those in boys and men. While boys with ASD tend to display more external behaviours like repetitive movements and fixation on specific interests, girls with ASD may exhibit more internalised behaviours like anxiety and depression. This can make it harder for clinicians to identify ASD in girls and women, as their symptoms may not fit the typical stereotype.
Another reason why women may struggle to get a diagnosis of ASD is gender bias. Unfortunately, there is still a gender bias when it comes to diagnosing and treating ASD, and girls and women are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. This can lead to a delay in receiving the proper diagnosis and support, which can have negative consequences on their mental health and well-being.
Moreover, many girls and women with ASD have developed coping mechanisms to mask their symptoms and fit in with their peers. This can make it even harder for clinicians to identify ASD, as these coping mechanisms can be mistaken for normal behaviour.
In addition, the diagnostic tools used to identify ASD were originally developed based on the symptoms displayed by boys and men. As a result, these diagnostic tools may not be as effective in identifying ASD in girls and women, as their symptoms may not match the original criteria.
In conclusion, there are various reasons why women struggle to get a diagnosis of autism, including differences in symptoms, gender bias, coping mechanisms, and diagnostic tools.
However, it is crucial to remember that ASD can affect anyone, regardless of gender, and early diagnosis and support are essential for improving outcomes and quality of life. If you suspect you or someone you know may have ASD, don't hesitate to seek a professional diagnosis and support.
Remember, everyone deserves to be seen and heard, and getting the right diagnosis and support can make all the difference in the world.
Share your own autism story @#UDontSeemAutistic and check out my book, U Don’t Seem Autistic, coming soon!
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