Swan

Females on the spectrum have been described as being like swans – appearing to glide across the surface of life but paddling furiously under the surface just to keep afloat! It is becoming increasingly understood that more women may be on the autism spectrum than previously thought. However, many develop a range of coping strategies that may mask the myriad of difficulties they face in day to day life. Their ability to cope in this way can leave women isolated and vulnerable, complicate the diagnostic process and restrict access to services or support. When they do hit difficulties or ‘crisis points’ in their lives, their difficulties may be misunderstood and they may be dismissed or misdiagnosed.