In this episode of The Equality Edit, Esi Hardy sits down with Teresa to explore the impact of late neurodivergency diagnosis in women and why this understanding is essential for workplaces committed to meaningful inclusion.
Together, they unpack why so many autistic and ADHD women go unnoticed for decades, how menopause can intensify traits, and the unseen toll of masking often carried for years without anyone, including the woman herself, realising it.
This conversation shines a light on the barriers society creates, how these barriers disable people with neurodivergent impairments, and what workplaces can do to create environments where everyone can thrive.
They cover:
· Why late diagnosis is so common for women and the realities behind “everyone’s a bit ADHD”.
· How late recognition of neurodiversity shapes performance, wellbeing and retention.
· The role of self-diagnosis, and why it is valid and important within the neurodivergent community.
· The practical difference that supportive managers, informed conversations and reasonable adjustments can make.
· How assumptions, rigid processes and lack of awareness can push talented women out of roles.
Links mentioned in the episode:
· Access to Work - https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work
· Right to Choose – Psychiatry UK - https://psychiatry-uk.com/right-to-choose/
· Right to Choose – ADHD 360 - https://www.adhd-360.com/right-to-choose/
· Refuse to Choose (book)
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