The Blog
“But You Don’t Seem Autistic”: Breaking Stereotypes & Misconceptions About Autistic Women (3/24/25 Keynote Address at Stockton University)
This article features the full text of Bridgette Hamstead’s keynote address, “But You Don’t Seem Autistic”: Breaking Stereotypes & Misconceptions About Autistic Women, delivered at Stockton University’s Neurodiversity Education and Celebration Day. It explores the harmful effects of outdated autism stereotypes, the emotional toll of masking, and the often invisible struggles of late-diagnosed autistic women and nonbinary individuals. The keynote calls for greater recognition, representation, and belief in autistic experiences—especially those that don’t fit traditional expectations.
The Invisible Autistic Elders: What We Can Learn from Late-Diagnosed Seniors
Many autistic elders have lived their entire lives without knowing they were autistic, often enduring decades of misunderstanding, misdiagnosis, and internalized shame. A late diagnosis can bring both relief and grief, offering clarity while highlighting years of unmet needs and lost support. By listening to their stories and advocating for age-inclusive recognition and care, we can learn from their resilience and ensure that no one feels too late to belong.
The Rise of Autistic Mutual Aid: How We’re Supporting Each Other When No One Else Will
Autistic mutual aid networks have emerged as essential support systems in response to the failures of government and nonprofit organizations to adequately serve autistic individuals. These grassroots efforts provide financial assistance, employment support, housing aid, healthcare navigation, and emotional solidarity, ensuring that autistic people have access to resources that traditional systems often deny them. By prioritizing community-driven care and lived experience, autistic mutual aid is reshaping disability support, proving that when institutions fail, autistic people step up to support one another.
Why Many Autistic & ADHD People Feel Safer in Online Communities
Online communities provide autistic and ADHD people with a safer, more accessible space for socializing by allowing for flexible communication, sensory autonomy, and interactions based on shared interests rather than neurotypical social norms. These spaces offer the freedom to unmask, engage at one’s own pace, and connect with a global network of like-minded individuals, fostering self-acceptance and genuine relationships. Rather than being an escape, online communities demonstrate what true accessibility and inclusion can look like, proving that when environments are designed with neurodivergent needs in mind, people can fully thrive.
Anti-Trans Laws Are Targeting Autistic Youth and Those With Mental Health Conditions
Anti-trans laws targeting gender-affirming care disproportionately harm autistic and neurodivergent youth, who are more likely to be transgender and already face significant barriers to healthcare. These laws falsely assume that autistic individuals are incapable of understanding their gender identity and restrict access to necessary medical care, worsening mental health outcomes. Advocates stress the importance of protecting the rights of trans autistic youth, opposing harmful policies, and ensuring access to affirming, evidence-based healthcare.
ADHD Patients and Doctors Fear Medication Access Under RFK Jr.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s appointment as Secretary of Health and Human Services has raised concerns about potential restrictions on ADHD medication access, which could disproportionately harm those who rely on stimulant prescriptions for daily functioning. Patients, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups fear that stricter regulations, misinformation, and bias against ADHD could exacerbate existing disparities in diagnosis and treatment. Advocacy efforts are mobilizing to protect medication access and push back against policies that threaten the well-being of neurodivergent individuals.
The Importance of Finding a Neurodivergent Community
Finding a neurodivergent community is essential for validation, emotional support, and reducing isolation, as it provides a space where individuals can connect with others who share their experiences. These communities offer practical strategies for managing neurodivergence, advocacy for systemic change, and a safe environment for unmasking and embracing authenticity. Whether online or in person, neurodivergent spaces empower individuals to shift from struggling with neurotypical expectations to recognizing their inherent worth and strengths.