March is a month of strong advocacy and celebration, with Neurodiversity Celebration Week (March 17-23) and International Women’s Day (March 8) shining a spotlight on inclusion. It’s the perfect time to recognise the experiences, strengths, and challenges of neurodivergent women, especially those with autism and ADHD.
International Women’s Day is all about celebrating the achievements of women everywhere—including neurodivergent women. By embracing neurodiversity as part of the broader diversity conversation, we can create a more inclusive world where every woman feels valued, supported, and empowered.
The unique challenges faced by neurodivergent women
Autistic woman, ADHD women and those with other forms of neurodiversity, often experience systemic barriers due to outdated diagnostic models, societal expectations, and a lack of tailored support.
Delayed or missed diagnoses
For many years, autism and ADHD were predominantly studied in men and boys, which led to significant misdiagnosis and delayed diagnoses in women and girls. These conditions often present differently in females, with many learning to “mask” their symptoms by mimicking social behaviours from a young age due to social conditioning and pressure to conform. As a result, many women don’t receive an accurate diagnosis until adulthood, often after having struggled for years with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or burnout. This delay can make it even harder for them to access the support they need and fully understand their own experiences, leading to feelings of frustration and isolation.
Research indicates that nearly 80% of autistic women are initially misdiagnosed, often with anxiety, depression, or personality disorders (Source: National Library of Medicine).
ADHD women are more likely to be overlooked, with many not diagnosed until their 30s or 40s (Source: CHADD).
Masking & mental health struggles
Many neurodivergent women consciously or unconsciously suppress their traits in order to fit into societal expectations. This process, known as “masking,” can take a significant toll on their mental and emotional well-being, leading to chronic stress, exhaustion, and burnout. Masking often results in women being perceived as “fine” or “normal” by those around them, even though they may be silently struggling with mental health challenges. The constant need to suppress natural behaviours or worry about how they are being perceived by others drains considerable mental energy, which can worsen feelings of low self-esteem and contribute to a growing sense of disconnection from their true selves. Over time, this loss of authenticity can lead to a profound crisis of self-identity, making it even harder to navigate daily life and seek the support they need.
Studies show that autistic women have higher rates of anxiety and depression than their male counterparts (Source: Autism Research).
Workplace & career challenges
Navigating the workplace can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent women. Traditional work environments often favour neurotypical communication styles, rigid structures, and sensory-heavy settings, creating barriers for those with autism and ADHD. In addition to the additional sensory stimuli and rigid structures, the pressure to continue masking to fit into the traditional office environment can add another layer of stress and interfere with successfully carrying out one’s job.
Neurodivergent women are more likely to be underemployed or unemployed, despite having strong skills (Source: Office for National Statistics, UK). Many workplaces lack understanding of reasonable accommodations, such as flexible working arrangements or clear communication practices. Helping to raise awareness of these barriers and encouraging employers to work alongside an individual to create a work environment that supports their strengths could greatly increase the percentage of neurodivergent women who can succeed in the workplace.
Increased vulnerability & social challenges
Autistic and ADHD women face unique and often overlooked challenges, with higher risks of exploitation, abuse, and social isolation. Their difficulty with reading social cues and a deep desire for acceptance can leave them more vulnerable in various situations. This vulnerability can result in feelings of being misunderstood or disconnected, making it harder to navigate social interactions and build supportive relationships.
Research highlights the heightened risks autistic women face, particularly in relation to sexual violence. Studies, such as those published in The Lancet Psychiatry, show that autistic women are more likely to experience sexual violence, partly due to their challenges with communication and social boundaries. This underscores the critical need for better protection, support, and advocacy to address these risks.
Similarly, women with ADHD often face specific struggles in their daily lives. According to The Journal of Attention Disorders, ADHD women are more likely to encounter financial instability, relationship challenges, and impulsivity-related difficulties. Their impulsivity can lead to rash decisions, while struggles with attention and organisation can affect their ability to manage finances or maintain stable relationships. These challenges can compound over time, leading to further marginalisation and hardship.
It’s crucial that we acknowledge these risks and work towards creating a safer, more understanding environment for neurodivergent women, where they are supported and empowered to thrive.
How we can support neurodivergent women
The intersection of gender and neurodiversity presents unique challenges, however, there are ways we can create a more inclusive and supportive world.
- Raise awareness – sharing stories and lived experiences helps challenge outdated stereotypes about autism and ADHD in women.
- Advocate for workplace inclusion – encouraging neurodiversity-friendly policies can help neurodivergent women thrive in their careers.
- Support early diagnosis & mental health – healthcare providers and educators need to recognise neurodivergence in women early to provide appropriate support.
Further reading
Last year, Challenge Allied Health team member and Registered Psychologist Amy Bartlett opened up about her own journey with ADHD, and the profound impact receiving a diagnosis as an adult has made on her life. You can read about her insights here.
Need support? Our Allied Health team can help
At Challenge, our Allied Health team provides essential support for neurodivergent women offering comprehensive diagnostic assessments and therapy. Our team of psychologists, behaviour support practitioners, social workers, and psychosocial recovery coaches work together to ensure that neurodivergent individuals receive the guidance and support they need to thrive.
We offer:
- Diagnostic assessments for autism and ADHD to provide clarity and access to support services.
- Behaviour support & therapy to assist with emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills.
- Psychosocial recovery coaching to empower neurodivergent individuals in achieving their goals and maintaining independence.
If you or someone you know could benefit from these services, reach out to our Allied Health team for more information. Learn more here.
