How autism presents across genders, unmasking, and how to talk with people with disabilities.
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| Hello, and happy Monday! It’s National Autism Awareness Month, so it feels like an appropriate time to share something personal with you all. A lot of people in my life still don’t know this, but I’m autistic. Many women, like myself, face barriers to receiving an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and are often diagnosed later in life. We dive into why below. |
| We’ll also be covering other mental health topics, like: |
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Be well,
Morgan Mandriota
Newsletter Editor, Healthline |
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Written by Morgan Mandriota
May 17, 2024 • 5 min read |
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| The (autism) gender gap |
First things first, what’s autism? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by differences with communication, social interaction, and restricted or repetitive behavioral patterns. (ICYMI: Asperger’s syndrome now falls under the autism umbrella!)
Let’s talk more about the “spectrum” part. Not all autistic people share the same symptoms, and symptom severity ranges per person as well. For example, it’s a common misconception that all autistic people are nonverbal or have difficulty maintaining eye contact. Symptoms can present many different ways and they may not be immediately obvious to an observer, especially across genders and if someone is masking (or hiding) their symptoms. But one thing is for sure: Autistic people are fully capable of leading happy, healthy, “normal” lives.
How does autism typically present in women versus men? Research suggests that males have more visible behavioral issues, whereas females may internalize and mask their symptoms to be more socially accepted. This may help explain why males are four times more likely to receive a diagnosis than females and why autistic girls and women are often misdiagnosed or diagnosed in adulthood, like me!
How someone is socialized plays a big role, too. For example, autistic boys and men may seem more hyperactive or impulsive, while girls and women might appear more sociable or empathetic.
I think I’m autistic. Now what? Support is available! Consider speaking with a neurodivergent-affirming therapist who’s ASD literate and will properly screen you over time. This diagnosis has improved my life in so many ways, and I hope anyone reading this feels empowered to seek out their own if they feel called.
Read more:
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| Editor faves with health perks |
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| Unmasking Autism |
| My therapist recommended I read this book, and I’ve had a hard time putting it down ever since I started. I find myself constantly thinking how author Devon Price, PhD, perfectly captures the autistic experiences I’ve never had the words or awareness to describe. It’s validating, comforting, healing, and insightful for people on the autism spectrum of all ages and stages in their journey to better understanding their brain and accessibility needs. |
| I recommend it to neurotypical folks who want to become a better ally to their neurodivergent loved ones as well. |
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| Every product we recommend has gone through Healthline's vetting process. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline is owned by RVO Health. |
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| A quick guide to treating people with disabilities like the humans they are |
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| Good intentions don’t always land when speaking with people with disabilities or mental health conditions. Oftentimes, certain words or behaviors may leave them feeling infantilized, disrespected, or misunderstood. Knowing what to say –– and what not to say –– can go a long way in helping disabled people feel like the human beings they are. |
| We tapped Chief Medical Officer of Elocin Psychiatric Services Nicole B. Washington, DO, to create this brief guideline of do’s and don’ts to consider when talking with people with disabilities. |
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Ask which language they prefer you use: person-first (“a person with a disability”) or identity-first (“a disabled person”)? |
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Include them in activities, but be flexible and understanding if they need to cancel. |
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Serve as a safe space for them to be their authentic self without judgment. |
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Learn about their disability to better understand their experience and how to support them. |
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Discount their disability or tell them they don’t look disabled. (e.g., “You don’t have a disability! You just have different abilities.”) |
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Treat them like children. |
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Speak to them in a slower or louder voice. |
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Automatically do things for them because you assume it’d be helpful or easier that way. |
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| “Ultimately, people with disabilities just want to be treated like people,” says Washington. |
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Is ADHD a disability?
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(Find the answer at the end of this email)
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| Is ADHD a disability? |
| Yes!
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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is considered a disability from both legal and medical perspectives. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), folks can receive benefits and accommodations under certain conditions, especially if this mental health condition negatively interferes with their ability to succeed at school or work.
If you or a loved one live with ADHD, learn more about how to receive help.
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Thanks for reading! We hope you have a great start to your week. Ginger will be back in your inboxes on Wednesday with more health stories you need.
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