What is it about?
The article explains that women and girls with autism and/or ADHD are prone to more serious illness than non-autistic females and that these occur at an earlier age. It explains what these illnesses are and how they can affect both the body and the mind.
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Why is it important?
It is important as doctors often don't recognise this, and sometimes neither do the very folk who are affected. It is important that everyone is educated to understand what the issues are,why they occur,and how they can be avoided or reduced, so that quality and quantity of life can be improved for autistic females.
Perspectives
Having met and got to know many autistic women and girls over recent years, I am concerned that they have not always received the appropriate care that they both need and deserve. Although many doctors are cautious about treating such patients, I have generally found them to be grateful for the understanding and support that they have requested (with just a single exception from a particularly complex person). My colleagues and I are keen to share our insight and experience with all those who are affected as well as those many professionals who come into contact with neurodivergent women and girls in the hope of improving their lives.
Dr Clive Kelly
James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Recognising and responding to physical and mental health issues in neurodivergent girls and women, British Journal of Hospital Medicine, April 2024, Mark Allen Group,
DOI: 10.12968/hmed.2023.0337.
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