Unmasking Autistic Traits in Women: Could You Be Autistic? by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of Highly Sensitive women seeking and receiving Autism diagnoses in adulthood. Past diagnostic criteria were inaccurate, particularly when it came to recognizing Autism in women, and estimates suggest that up to 80% of Autistic women may be undiagnosed.

This shift reflects a growing understanding of the diverse ways Autism presents itself in women and highlights the importance of reevaluating our perceptions and diagnostic approaches. In this article, I’ll delve into the distinctive traits I’ve commonly found in Autistic women, providing a platform for self-reflection and understanding for those exploring their neurodivergent identities later in life. 

Autism presents itself uniquely in women, often leading to overlooked or misunderstood experiences. This article explores distinctive traits commonly found in Autistic women, providing a platform for self-reflection.

Could you be Autistic? Let's explore some characteristics and see if they resonate with your experiences.

Common in Autistic Women

• A profound need for alone time and, without enough of it, suffering from burnout, meltdowns, or illness

• Heightened, specific interests, often wanting to spend hours thinking about, researching, or discussing everything there is to know about that subject

• Masking or camouflaging social behavior to fit in, a divergence from one’s authentic self

• Less social needs than most of their peers, often preferring to enjoy their inner world and special interests

• Quickly fatigued when around groups of people, especially when it’s new people. Can also reach a point of meltdown or shutdown when fatigued

• More often than not, anxious in social situations, feeling out of place and different than others, especially with new people

• Tendency to experience strong emotions, and when fatigued, reaching a point where managing them becomes challenging

• Can get bored easily with small talk and around people who don’t share similar interests  

• If given a choice to call or write, they usually find it easier to write, giving time for word choice and processing

• Sensory sensitivities (and overload) and preferences tend to be heightened

• Difficulty forming deeper friendships: Often grappling with the gap between friendliness and friendship

• Some women also share that they feel uncomfortable with touch (like hugging), especially from people they don't know. Or they prefer a strong hug rather than light touch. This seems to vary, which makes sense since this is a spectrum

• Eye contact can feel like you are looking into someone’s soul or they are looking into yours; therefore, it can be uncomfortable, especially for long periods of time

How many did you relate to?

In unraveling these common traits, I hope to provide a space for self-reflection and recognition. Autism is a spectrum that manifests uniquely in each individual, and understanding these traits can be a pivotal step in recognizing and embracing one's authentic self. If you find resonance with these experiences, it might be time to explore the possibility of being Autistic and connect with a community that understands and celebrates these unique qualities.

Learn more about my research in understanding traits that overlap in high sensitivity and Autism in women, join my Autistic Women’s Support Group, or learn more about getting an Autism Assessment with the updated criteria!

Autism Resources for Women

Education, Research, Assessment, and Support Group for Autistic Women

I’m Julie Bjelland, LMFT

A proud Autistic, HSP, Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in highly sensitive people and adult-diagnosed Autism in females. I founded Sensitive Empowerment to raise awareness about the extraordinary value inherent in Sensitivity and Neurodiversity. Recognizing the vital importance of education and support, I’m dedicated to creating tools and resources to reduce susceptibility to mental and physical health challenges.

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