Grimes, 37, has revealed she’s been diagnosed with ADHD and autism, highlighting the struggles many autistic girls and women face in getting an accurate diagnosis.
Autistic girls and women are often undiagnosed until later in life, or even not at all. Research suggests nearly 80% remain undiagnosed by age 18. The main reason is that experts rely on developmental history and behavior to make a diagnosis, but most research has focused on males.
Girls with autism may exhibit advanced language skills, which can lead parents and teachers to overlook potential concerns. They often mask their autistic traits, making it harder for doctors to spot. Women with autism are also more likely to experience anxiety and depression due to the lack of support and coping strategies.
A late diagnosis can have severe consequences, including struggles with self-esteem, isolation, and mental health issues. Autism signs in women include social anxiety, sensory sensitivity, and difficulty with organization and emotions. Recognizing these traits is crucial for providing vital support and developing effective coping strategies.
Experts recommend watching out for advanced language skills, mimicking others’ behaviors, and emotional meltdowns after social outings. By acknowledging the unique challenges faced by autistic girls and women, we can work towards improving diagnosis rates and providing them with the necessary support to thrive.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/04/01/health/grimes-reveals-autism-diagnosis-why-its-harder-to-spot-in-girls