Women – Often Overlooked, Always Resilient
Recent research from Advance Charity and the University of Bedfordshire (2025) highlights a critical issue, that neurodivergent women and girls are frequently overlooked in support services, particularly regarding experiences of abuse, exploitation and trauma (Advance Charity, 2025; University of Bedfordshire, 2025). Despite heightened vulnerability, their needs often go unrecognized due to systems designed for neurotypical individuals (and male-focused research). This oversight can leave neurodivergent survivors without the tailored support they need to recover, thrive and stay safe.
This is what we take on as our mission with NeuroMynds to change that and keep women safe and teaching girls early on through their parents in coaching and educational efforts.
Neurodivergent women have different social communication styles, sensory sensitivities and coping mechanisms. When these differences aren’t acknowledged, services can inadvertently dismiss their experiences or fail to provide effective help (Bedford Today, 2025).
Here are three actionable steps to better support neurodivergent women:
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Embed Neurodivergence Awareness in Services
Train professionals across healthcare, social care, education and voluntary sectors to recognize neurodivergent traits and adapt communication and support strategies. We’re not doing enough here, but we have to – it’s a serious issue! -
Co-Design Support with Lived Experience
Include neurodivergent women in designing programs, policies and interventions. Their insights ensure services are accessible, trauma-informed and relevant to real needs. -
Provide Long-Term, Relationship-Based Support
One-off interventions are often insufficient. Establish ongoing support networks, mentoring and check-ins tailored to neurodivergent women (and parents), ensuring they can navigate recovery at their own pace.
Neurodivergent women are highly resilient, resourceful and very often overlooked. By embedding awareness, listening to lived experience, and providing sustained support, we can close gaps in services and create environments where all women feel seen, safe and supported.
