further information on autism, ADHD and other neurodivergencies

Below is a whole bunch of further reading, that relates to the definitions in the Glossary – websites, books and online videos. Some are here because they are my favourites, or because they explain a complex topic nicely, and some are here to hopefully show you both sides of a debate. You will find more links on specific topics within many of the individual glossary entries. I in no way endorse any of these websites, they are here simply because I feel that they may be of use to you, if you want more information in that area. I would also encourage you to research around that topic further to ensure you’re getting the full picture.

Each item in the websites, blogs and videos sections is a direct link to an external web page and these will open in a separate window.

websites with clear explanations and further support

Study tips for ADHD students, kindly shared by Robin from a home schooling network

An incredibly informative autistic community, specifically for BIPOC (black, indigenous and people of colour)

NeuroClastic is a non-profit collective, absolutely packed with articles on everything autism-related, written by autistic people

Useful information for dyspraxic (DCD) adults, from the UK’s Dyspraxia Foundation

The PDA Society (Pathological Demand Avoidance)

The Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network is a wonderful resource for marginalised genders. I particularly like these accessible information packs for newly diagnosed neurodivergent adults and children

A lighthearted read on the joy of infodumping!

OCD, autism and ADHD – a useful article highlighting similarities and differences

Masking – a really straightforward explanation

Chewing is a stim and stimming relieves stress – so do it!

A helpful list of signs of burnout, from the University of Kent’s So You’re Autistic? page

Myths and stereotypes about autism

Understood is a non-profit organisation in the United States that exists for us – people with differences – it’s website is unique!

Rejection sensitivity – what is it and is it a particular issue for ADHDers?

Beat eating disorders, the UK charity – this takes you to the ARFID page

Monotropism – an autistic-friendly theory of autism

websites and online articles for those who want to delve deeper

Groundbreaking training for autistic people, their families, and professionals. I can personally recommend it!

A great little Guardian interview with Judy Singer

The science behind interoception, explained in an accessible way

The debate about whether ADD and ADHD are the same condition (United States website)

A very persuasive article on Identity-first language – the Autistic Self Advocacy Network UK

The aftermath of the Hans Asperger exposé – A BPS article

The differences between ADD and ADHD (UK website)

Aphantasia Network – explaining a complex condition with helpful visuals

Rigidity, black and white thinking – a recent academic article for those who want to dig deep!

Neurodiverse and neurodivergent – these words have very different meanings

The ICD-11 diagnostic requirements for ADHD

The ICD-11 diagnostic requirements for Autism Spectrum Disorder

‘You Don’t Look Dyslexic’ – an academic article examining the experiences of dyslexics in the workplace

Order, chaos and liturgical autism – An interesting article on the role of religion in the author’s efforts to find predictability

books

What I Want to Talk About – How Autistic Special Interests Shape a Life by Pete Wharmby – I love this book! The title speaks for itself.

Strong Female Character, a memoir by Fern Brady – You’ll go through all of the emotions reading this account of being undiagnosed until adulthood. Superb.

Spectrum Women: Walking to the beat of Autism, edited by Cook & Garnett – A MUST READ!

Fingers in the Sparkle Jar, a memoir by Chris Packham – a beautiful book with a really quirky, intense style. If your special interest is nature, read this!

Different, Not Less, a memoir by Chloe Hayden – a really accessible read and perfect for younger adults and Disney fans!

Letters To My Weird Sisters: on autism, feminism and motherhood by Joanne Limburg – thought provoking, moving but not recommended as an introductory read.

Autism in Adults by Dr Luke Beardon, a big fan of all things autistic and a great advocate. A fantastically helpful read for newly diagnosed and undiagnosed adults.

Un-Typical: how the world isn’t built for autistic people and what we should all do about it by Pete Wharmby – angry, honest, brilliant – a great starting point.

Drama Queen – One Autistic Woman and a Life of Unhelpful Labels by Sara Gibbs – it’s on my shelf, ready to read, and one of our community members recommends it

Reasons To Stay Alive by Matt Haig – a mixture of memoir and advice – a wonderful, positive book that had me in tears