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Molly Siobhan Parker is a woman on a mission to challenge misconceptions surrounding autism, particularly in autistic women. Her own diagnosis came at 22, joining a growing number of adults receiving diagnoses. In the UK, research indicates a significant increase in autism diagnoses over the years, especially amongst women seeking support in Wales. The National Autistic Society highlights how diagnostic criteria, crafted around traditional ‘male’ autism attributes, has left many women undiagnosed.
Autism, as a unique neurodivergent condition, impacts individuals’ perception and interaction with the world. For Parker, her diagnosis at 28 marked a turning point, acknowledging the toll on her mental health post-graduation. The portrayal of autism in the media, she stresses, often misses the mark, failing to represent the diverse spectrum of individuals. Parker’s journey towards self-acceptance has been transformative, allowing her to understand herself better and feel more understood by others.
Prior to her diagnosis, Parker navigated dark mental spaces, experiencing what she now identifies as burnout from undiagnosed autism. She underscores the common struggle among women who spend their lives masking their traits, only for the facade to crumble, leading to severe burnout. While her diagnosis brought mental health benefits, Parker is critical of the lacking support provided post-diagnosis, calling for more personalized tools to address individual needs.
The rise in autistic adults seeking diagnoses in Wales, corroborated by data from Neurodivergence Wales, highlights a notable trend. The road to diagnosis for many women, as observed by Sian Lewis from Wales’ Neurodivergence Service, often involves reaching a ‘crisis point’ due to misdiagnoses or a lack of awareness. Efforts by the Welsh government to reduce waiting times for neurodivergence services and prioritize early support for children signify steps towards creating a more inclusive and supportive system for those seeking diagnosis and assistance
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