Why seek a diagnosis?
I have worked with females on the autism spectrum for over twenty years and from my own experience, those who seek a diagnosis later in their life (either adolescence or adulthood), do so because they report to have felt “different” for a large part of their lives, and that they struggle to “fit in”; although do not understand the reasons for feeling like this. Sometimes, they seek help after experiencing an increase in social demands, that has led to an increase in stress and feeling anxious and overwhelmed. For example, starting college, university or a new job, taking important exams, or even now during the current global Covid pandemic. Receiving a diagnosis is often the start of a journey, with many females reporting a sense of relief, coupled with mixed emotions (such as anger, sadness, guilt, joy, happiness). A diagnosis can help develop an individual’s self-awareness and acceptance of who they are and how they fit in with the world, develop their strengths and overcome their difficulties, leading to increased self-esteem and confidence.
Signs to look for in females specifically that may indicate being on the Autism Spectrum?
Parents of baby girls on the spectrum often report a sense of detachment with their child, and babies who appear to be either over clingy and anxious, or extremely placid and quiet. Growing up, children may experience difficulties understanding the “rules” to different social situations, making friends, and “trying to fit in” with their peers. They may learn set “scripts” to communicate with their peers or learn other strategies that help to mask their difficulties. They may be particularly vulnerable in their relationships with others (for example, many become involved in abusive relationships due to their naivety) and often their relationships can be described as intense or exhausting. However, some females report that they are happy being alone or need frequent time out away from their interactions with others. Some women on the spectrum may struggle with their employment (for example with multi-tasking, changes to routine, environmental factors at work and difficulties processing information), although others excel in their chosen field, demonstrating exceptional talents. Sensory sensitivities are common; for example, difficulties tolerating loud sounds, bright lights, sensitivities towards certain food textures and materials, and smells. Through my work with females on the spectrum in psychiatric settings, some women also suffer with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and self-harming behaviours.
How can a diagnosis or specialist support help?
I would encourage anyone who suspects they may be on the spectrum to seek help from an experienced Clinician that specialises in working with Autism. You might not necessarily want a formal diagnosis, but you may value the chance to talk about the difficulties you have faced and want to develop your own self-awareness and learn skills (such as developing communication and relationship skills, problem-solving strategies and emotion management skills), tailored to you as an individual. Parents of children who are on the Spectrum may benefit from support in developing their parenting strategies. Mothers or expectant mums who are on the spectrum may feel they would benefit from additional support, as pregnancy and the birth of a child can be a particularly stressful time. Employers within the workplace or teachers within Education may benefit from specialised training.
Every individual on the Spectrum is unique, you’re awesome!
Dr. Miranda Gaylor, Consultant Psychologist, Vivamus.