Calling Autistic Women Diagnosed in Adulthood

[Aseni]

Hi, are you an autistic woman who is living more openly as an autistic self after a late diagnosis? I’d love to hear your story!

I am an autistic woman and an advocate for improved diagnostic pathways and support for autistic women. I am looking for just 4 more participants for a postgraduate research project approved by the University of East London (Ethics Committee Reference: 201/2688452/07-2025).

Autistic women are often misdiagnosed or go undiagnosed, partly because we are not presenting with what is regarded as typical autistic traits. Some of us consciously or subconsciously hide our autistic behaviours and traits to fit in, meet social expectations or to avoid being judged. It is a demanding process that can be mentally exhausting and lead to stress, low mood and identity confusion. My study aims to explore autistic women’s experiences of being more openly autistic and reducing or stopping the effort to hide or suppress autistic traits.

Who can take part?

• Women aged 18+
• Diagnosed with autism in adulthood

What does participation involve?

• An informal chat (45–60 mins, or shorter if preferred) via Microsoft Teams
• Cameras can be turned off
• I can share example questions beforehand
• No right or wrong answers – just your story

Why take part?

• Make your voice heard
• Help shape research that could influence services and understanding of autistic women
• Be part of a supportive and respectful space

If you are an autistic woman diagnosed in adulthood and would like to take part, I’d love to hear from you. Please feel free to send me a private message via my profile page.

Thank you so much for reading!