Understanding the Experiences of Neurodivergent Women with Late Diagnosis of ADHD and/or Autism: A Comprehensive Study into Lived Experience

about this project

We are conducting a study to better understand the experiences of women who were diagnosed with / identify as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and Autism later in life (after 25 years old). We want to learn about the challenges they face and how they cope with them. We also aim to develop support strategies to improve their lives.


The study will also help us better understand general attitudes and community understanding of ADHD and Autism in women.


We collected data from women who were diagnosed/identified with Autism or ADHD later in life (after age 25). We have now completed all interviews (May, 2024) and are focused on analysing the information collected.


We want to thank you all for your involvement. Taking the time to share your lived experiences will mean we can work toward creating more awareness in the general community and the health care industry in order make life better for women who have been diagnosed/identified with ADHD or Autism later in life.


About The Researchers

Dr Sonja Skocic - Principal Researcher

PhD., MPsych., GradDipPsych., GDMD., BSc.

Sonja is a Senior Clinical Psychologist, Founder and Director of Melbourne Centre for Women's Mental Health. She has worked in the mental health field for thirty years providing psychological support for women and girls, conducting research in various areas of women's mental health as well as teaching and clinical supervision for students and registrars.


Lydia Perry - Research Assistant

Lydia joined Melbourne Centre for Women's Mental Health in 2023 as a part of the Monash Science Work Integrated Learning Placement. By partnering with Monash University, Science, our Centre aims to empower the next generation of researchers and contribute to meaningful breakthroughs. During her time as an intern, Lydia learned a lot about scientific method and the process of conducting a research project while she was assisting with an important research project into Late Life acknowledgement / diagnosis of Neurodivergence in adult women. Upon completion of her internship, Lydia was asked to officially join the team as a Research Assistant so we could continue to work on this project together.


Lydia is currently studying a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Biochemistry, and enjoying many other Science and Arts subjects as part of her degree.

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