Autism in women can be tricky to spot, and it often flies under the radar. Unlike the more obvious signs seen in men, women might quietly adapt or develop coping strategies that hide their struggles.
This means many go through life without a diagnosis, sometimes feeling out of place or misunderstood. If you’ve ever wondered why certain social situations, routines, or sensory experiences feel overwhelming, or if you notice subtle patterns in yourself or someone you know, it could be worth taking a closer look of seeing a neurodivergent specialist therapist.
Here are 10 signs of autism in women you might be unaware of:
1) Difficulty With Social Interactions
Women on the autism spectrum may find it challenging to navigate social situations. This can include difficulty maintaining conversations, interpreting body language, or understanding social cues. Many women learn to mask these difficulties by mimicking others, but this often leads to mental exhaustion and anxiety.
2) Strong Need for Routine
A consistent daily routine can feel comforting to many autistic women. Sudden changes or disruptions in schedule may cause stress or overwhelm. While everyone dislikes unexpected changes sometimes, for women on the spectrum, even minor deviations can be particularly unsettling.
3) Intense Focus on Interests
Autistic women often develop deep, focused interests in specific topics. These interests might not match the stereotypical “autistic” hobbies and can include areas like literature, fashion, or history. Passion for these subjects can be a source of joy, but may also make social connections challenging if peers don’t share the same intensity.
4) Sensory Sensitivities
Many women on the spectrum experience heightened sensitivity to lights, sounds, textures, or smells. Everyday environments like supermarkets, offices, or public transport can feel overwhelming. Understanding sensory triggers and seeking coping strategies can greatly improve comfort and well-being.
5) Difficulty Expressing Emotions
Some autistic women struggle to express emotions in ways others expect. This might appear as flat affect, limited facial expressions, or difficulty explaining feelings. Misunderstandings can arise in relationships, as others may assume a lack of empathy rather than a difference in emotional processing.
6) Masking or Camouflaging Behaviour
Masking is common in autistic women and involves consciously copying social behaviours to fit in. While effective in the short term, it can lead to stress, anxiety, or burnout. Recognising masking is an important step toward seeking an accurate diagnosis and developing supportive strategies.
7) Difficulty with Small Talk
Many women on the spectrum find small talk challenging or draining. Conversations may feel superficial or meaningless, prompting avoidance of casual social interactions. Preferring deeper, meaningful conversations is common and not a sign of rudeness.
8) Challenges With Executive Functioning
Executive functioning refers to skills like planning, organising, and managing time. Autistic women may struggle with these tasks, leading to missed deadlines, forgetfulness, or difficulty keeping track of daily responsibilities. Supportive strategies or tailored tools can make a big difference.
- Using calendars or apps for reminders
- Breaking tasks into smaller steps
9) Anxiety or Depression
Anxiety or depression can be lesser-known signs of autism, especially in girls and women. According to UCLA Health, girls are more likely to internalise their autistic traits, which can appear as chronic anxiety, low mood, or shyness. These behaviours often go unnoticed because they fit social expectations.
Studies also show that up to 40% of autistic adults experience depression at some point in their lives. Anxiety and depression often develop due to masking, social pressure, or constantly feeling misunderstood. Recognising these patterns early can help provide the right mental health support and improve wellbeing over time.
10) Struggling to Receive a Diagnosis
Many women are diagnosed later in life, sometimes not until adulthood. Societal expectations and gender stereotypes can obscure recognition of autism, making tailored autism assessments for women essential for accurate identification and access to support services.
In Conclusion
Women who recognise several of these signs in themselves or others shouldn’t panic. A proper assessment can provide answers and help guide strategies for coping and thriving. NeuroAffinity offers a compassionate, structured approach designed specifically for women, addressing the nuances often missed in standard autism assessments. Book in for a test today to get the answers that you’ve been looking for.
FAQs About Autism in Women
Can autistic women appear “normal”?
Yes, many women develop coping strategies, often called masking, which help them appear neurotypical in social situations. This can make their autism less obvious, which is why professional assessments are so important.
Are the signs of autism always obvious?
Not necessarily. Signs of autism can be subtle, especially if a woman has learned to mask behaviours over time.
Is it too late to get assessed as an adult?
No. Adults can seek a formal diagnosis, which can open access to support, resources, and a better understanding of oneself.