Understanding Autism in Females: The Self-Test That Can Help You Know Yourself Better
Imagine feeling like you don’t quite fit in, even in spaces where you’re supposed to feel most comfortable. For many women, this isn’t just a passing thought—it’s a daily experience. Autism, often associated with males, is sometimes overlooked in females due to the different ways it can manifest. Today, we will explore what autism looks like in women and how a self-test can be a powerful tool for self-understanding.
The Silent Struggle:
Emma, a 28-year-old graphic designer, always felt like she was playing a role in social situations. Whether at work or with friends, she mimicked others’ behaviours to blend in, constantly worried about standing out for the wrong reasons. She was sensitive to loud noises and bright lights, which left her feeling drained after a long day. Emma loved diving deep into her hobbies, often losing herself in hours of research or design. But beneath her passion was a lingering exhaustion, a feeling of not being seen or understood.
What Emma didn’t realize was that these experiences could be linked to autism. Like many women, she was unaware that autism in females often presents differently than it does in males. It wasn’t until a conversation with a friend who worked in mental health that Emma started to consider that her unique traits might be part of a bigger picture.
Why Autism Can Look Different in Females:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is commonly linked to specific behaviours, including challenges in social interactions, repetitive actions, and intense focus on particular interests. However, these signs can be less evident in females, leading to many women going undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years.
One reason for this is that women with autism might be better at masking—consciously or unconsciously hiding their symptoms to fit in socially. This can involve mimicking social cues, learning to make eye contact, or even suppressing behaviours that might be seen as odd. While this can assist women in managing social situations, it can also be draining and contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, or confusion.
The Power of a Self-Test:
If you resonate with Emma’s story, you might wonder how to explore these feelings further. A self-test can be a gentle first step. It’s not a definitive diagnosis, but it can help you identify traits that might suggest autism.
Here are some key questions to ask yourself during a self-test:
Do social situations leave you feeling drained or anxious, even with people you know well?Are you highly sensitive to sensory experiences like loud noises, bright lights, or specific textures?Do you often find yourself copying others’ social behaviours to fit in?Are there particular interests or hobbies that you’re deeply passionate about, sometimes to the exclusion of other activities?Do you feel you’re ‘masking’ your true self to be accepted in social settings?If these questions resonate with you, it might be worth exploring the possibility of autism further. Remember, a self-test is just a starting point. It’s about gaining insight, not labelling or boxing yourself into a diagnosis.
Supportive Tools You Can Use:
As you explore these traits, specific tools and products might help you manage sensory sensitivities and improve your well-being:
Sensory Toys and Fidget Tools: Consider using stress relief fidget toys to help you manage anxiety and sensory overload in social situations. Chewable Jewelry : These discreet, stylish accessories can help those with sensory needs. They provide a safe outlet for managing oral sensory processing.Books and Workbooks: If you’re looking for a more guided exploration, a workbook like “I Am Autistic: A Workbook” can offer practical advice and exercises to help you understand your experiences better.Sensory Swings and Weighted Blankets: For more profound sensory relief, you might explore using an indoor therapy swing or a weighted blanket, which can provide calming, deep-pressure stimulation that aids relaxation and focus.What to Do Next:
If the self-test raises more questions, consider contacting a mental health professional. They can help you navigate your feelings, provide a more thorough assessment, and guide you towards the proper support.
Understanding yourself better can be a powerful tool in your journey toward self-acceptance. For women like Emma, recognizing the possibility of autism can be a turning point—allowing them to embrace who they are rather than feeling like they need to fit into a mould that wasn’t made for them.
Autism in females is often misunderstood, but that doesn’t make it any less accurate. If you feel like something doesn’t add up, taking a self-test could be the first step toward understanding and accepting your unique self. Remember, you’re not alone, and there’s support available every step of the way.
For personalized support and guidance, click below or write to me at namita@educateable.in.
Let’s ConnectReady to explore further? Reach out to a professional who can help guide you on this path. Self-awareness is the first step towards self-acceptance. You’ve got this.
Subscribe to our website for the latest insights and resources.
