Are autism and gender dysphoria related?

The term gender dysphoria refers to the psychological discomfort that can occur when a person’s gender identity doesn’t align with the one they were assigned at birth. This mental health condition can begin in childhood but may become more intense during puberty or later in life. 

While research on the topic is limited, there appears to be a strong link between autism and gender dysphoria. A recent study found that gender-diverse people are three to six times more likely to be autistic than cisgender people. 

The medical and mental health communities are still working to understand the underlying reasons for this connection. But by deepening your awareness of this association, you can become a better advocate for yourself and seek the gender-affirming care you deserve.

Unpacking autism and gender identity

It’s clear that people with autism are more likely to experience gender dysphoria. A recent survey found that 5% of cisgender people have autism, while 24% of gender-diverse people do. Researchers have hypothesized that there are biological, social, and/or psychological reasons for this overlap. However, a report reviewed 15 current theories on the topic and found that none of them could provide a reliable, well-supported explanation for the link between autism and gender dysphoria. 

In the future, with more time and research, experts will most likely uncover the connection between autism and gender diversity. For some, the term “autigender” reflects how being autistic shapes their experience of gender identity, highlighting the unique ways these identities intersect. But in the meantime, remember that your lived experience matters and you deserve support. If you’re autistic (or you think you might be) and are wrestling with questions about your gender identity, know that you’re not alone. There are mental health professionals who specialize in treating gender-diverse people with autism who can provide encouragement and guidance as you explore your identity.

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Can autism be confused with gender dysphoria?

Gender dysphoria and autism are two different mental health conditions with distinct core features. However, they also have a few things in common and frequently co-occur, and this can complicate diagnosis. So if you’re living with any of the following, it could be a sign of autism, gender dysphoria, or both.

• Social concerns: Both gender dysphoria and autism are known to impact social connection and communication. They can make it difficult to maintain a strong support network, and this can lead to isolation.
• Sensory differences: It’s well established that people with autism are more likely to experience heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli. However, it appears that people with gender dysphoria may also be prone to sensory differences.
• Co-occurring conditions: People with autism and GD may be at greater risk for other mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety. Both experiences can also lead to self-harm and suicidality,* and this highlights the critical need for tailored mental health support.

*A note on safety: If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 from any phone. Their counselors will provide confidential support and resources to help keep you safe.

Finding support as a person with autism and gender dysphoria

If you’re experiencing gender dysphoria and are on the autism spectrum, it can be difficult to know where to turn for support. You might wonder if having autism will affect your ability to transition. Or maybe you’re unsure whether you should access support for your autism before seeking gender-affirming care. 

Remember, your path to uncovering and embracing your true self will be unique to you. But accessing support that reflects the full picture of your mental health will help ensure the best outcome possible. 

Here are a few things to consider as you seek care for autism and gender dysphoria:

• Try to be patient with yourself. Research shows that it may take gender-diverse people longer to transition if they also have autism. This is due to the ways autism can affect things like resistance to change, rigidity, and sensory sensitivity. Try to practice self-compassion throughout your transition, no matter how long it takes.  
• Seek integrated care. If you have co-occurring autism and gender dysphoria, you’ll likely benefit from care that addresses both concerns simultaneously. Look for a therapist who’s skilled in providing gender-affirming care for neurodiverse people. 
• Look for ways to build community. If you have autism and are questioning your gender identity, you might feel isolated. But, by connecting with others who understand what you’re going through, you can start to feel less alone. For example, look for support groups or volunteer opportunities in your community or online that focus on LGBTQIA+ issues and/or advocate for neurodiverse people.

Find care with Rula

We don’t yet fully understand why so many people on the autism spectrum also live with gender dysphoria. And it can be difficult to know whether a person is living with autism, gender dysphoria, or both. If you have autism and are questioning your gender identity, you don’t have to navigate this experience alone. With the right support, you can learn to cope with your unique challenges as you work toward embracing your true, authentic self.  

When you need a therapist who specializes in providing integrated, gender-affirming care for neurodiverse people, we want to invite you to Rula. With a network of over 10,000 providers to choose from, you can find a therapist who takes your insurance and offers the personalized support you deserve in just a few clicks. Getting started is simple. You can use our therapist-matching program to find the right provider for your needs today and schedule your first live video therapy session for as soon as tomorrow.

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