Mental health nursing and autism: I am a mental health nurse so why did it take me so long to realize I’m autistic?

Abstract

What is known on the subject?: Women with autistic spectrum disorder are likely to be diagnosed with other mental health needs and to have experienced trauma. Mental health nurses are likely to encounter women who possibly fit the criteria for a autistic spectrum diagnosis, but who have not been offered appropriate support or signposting. What the paper adds to existing knowledge: Using my own lived experience as a late diagnosed woman with autism and as a mental health nurse, I identify some of the gaps in training and knowledge that mental health nurses have. What are the implications for practice?: Suggestions are made as to how improvements in mental health nurses’ knowledge of autistic spectrum disorder in women could enhance mental wellbeing for this group of people.