Autism

Neurodivergence and domestic abuse: The link that we can’t ignore

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:26:48 +0000

Running from 25 November (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) until 10 December (Human Rights Day), the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a key time to reflect on what we know about acts of violence committed against women and girls. To mark this important time, we want to bring attention t...

Why gender stereotypes affect autism diagnosis in women and girls

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 09:26:44 +0100

Statistically, more males than females are diagnosed as autistic. Unfortunately, societal expectations of gender roles can heavily influence how behaviours are perceived and whether they are recognized as potentially autistic. Girls and women are more likely to internalize challenges they encounter and mask their differences in order to fit in, oft...

Do we know what causes autism?

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 10:01:21 +0100

There isn't a single known cause of autism. However, research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to its development. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition. ASD affects how people communicate, interact, and experience the world. While autism is often present from birth with noticeable characteristics d...

Autism and managing routines during the holidays

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 09:36:45 +0100

Many autistic people rely on routine for a sense of safety and consistency and for some, public holidays can be a source of anxiety rather than relaxation. Whether the change in your usual routine is down to school closures, summer holidays, travel, or any other kind of public holiday, changes to your usual routine might need some additional consid...

What happens after an autism diagnosis in the UK?

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 09:26:19 +0100

After receiving an autism diagnosis, you should be kind to yourself. It's important to take time to understand your feelings, and how autism may affect you. Receiving an autism diagnosis does not change who you are. However, it may allow you to access the support you may need and further understand your unique challenges and strengths. In this arti...

The potential impact of CBD on neurodevelopmental conditions

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 10:19:29 +0100

Cannabidiol (CBD) was initially discovered in 1940 and has since been studied for its potential uses, receiving its own awareness day in 2018. Differing from THC (which is found in higher concentrations in marijuana), CBD is non-psychoactive and does not cause a high, meaning it could be used without causing intoxication. Since this discovery, ther...

Birds of a feather: What we know about the friendships between neurodivergent people

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:49:18 +0100

If you or someone you love has a neurodevelopmental condition such as autism or ADHD, you’re likely to be aware of some of the common barriers to close and long-lasting relationships that people experience. This perception of neurodivergence may feel discouraging but, as we are seeing more in shared experiences online through social media, me...

Why are more people being diagnosed with autism? The UK’s increase in autism diagnosis rates

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 09:20:29 +0100

There has been a rise in autism diagnoses in recent years with speculation as to the reason being discussed widely, especially thanks to views being presented in world politics. Many are unsure if the increased rates are due to an increase in intervention and diagnosis, or more children being autistic in the population. In this resource, we look at...

Is there a link between neurodivergence and the LGBTQ+ community?

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 10:04:10 +0100

There has been an ongoing discussion on the overlap in neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities with studies aiming to give us better insight into the link. Is this link important and what can it do for the support made available to people within each group? As we observe Pride month, we explore the topic and as offer our insight into how it should in...

What are the signs of autism?

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:15:04 +0100

Autism is defined by differences in communication, social interaction, and behaviour. Identifying these characteristics early is key to ensuring timely diagnosis and effective support. This guide highlights common signs of autism in both children and adults, helping you recognise traits and access the right support if needed. Table of contents Soci...

What are the different signs of autism in adults?

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 11:24:54 +0100

Autism is usually expected to be diagnosed in childhood. However, many people are not diagnosed with autism until later in life, especially as we learn more about characteristics and how they present themselves. Autism can be characterised by a range of signs and experiences. While not all characteristics may point to an autism diagnosis, there are...

Getting the right support after an autism diagnosis

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 09:35:20 +0100

Receiving a diagnosis of autism can be a pivotal moment in someone’s life and often follows a significant personal journey. But what happens afterwards? Establishing the right support moving forward is just as important and can help you to process the diagnosis and make adjustments to help with any challenges you might experience day-to-day. ...

How to explain autism to your family and friends

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 11:20:31 +0000

For many people, receiving an autism diagnosis helps explain lifelong experiences and patterns they've noticed in themselves. It can help them understand how they perceive and interact with the world. When you decide to tell family and friends about your diagnosis, they might have questions. Some may have outdated ideas about what autism is. This i...

Should I get an autism assessment?

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 15:23:55 +0000

If you identify with the characteristics of autism, you might be wondering if you should get an autism assessment. An autism diagnosis may allow those with the condition to better understand the feelings and behaviours they have. It may also lead to better support and assistance in the workplace or educational setting. In this article, we hear from...

How we help psychiatrists deliver outstanding outcomes

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 11:42:04 +0000

Since day one, we've worked with some of the UK’s most respected psychiatrists. As we continue to grow nationwide, we want to expand our team to help us remain at the forefront of evidence-based clinical practice. One of our goals is to make high-quality mental health care accessible to as many people as possible. Having initially developed o...

How to choose the autism assessment that’s right for you

Wed, 19 May 2021 18:10:20 +0100

Going through life without an autism diagnosis is more common than many people think. Lots of autistic people reach adulthood accepting they don't fit in as well as others, teaching themselves different methods to cope with life's challenges. But for many, this can be extremely exhausting. The path to self-discovery can begin at any time. You may h...

Why are so many autistic women overlooked or misdiagnosed?

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 10:17:37 +0100

Since autism was first diagnosed in the 1940s, males have and continue to be, more frequently diagnosed as autistic than females. Lots of theories attempt to explain the difference, including biological reasons, problematic diagnostic measures, and environmental factors. However, no single factor has been proven to account for the gender difference...