Recognising the Rheumatological Needs of Neurodivergent Females: Commentary

We experience life and interact with others in a multitude of ways. The term ‘neurodivergence’ refers to variations from what is considered typical or normal. Neurodivergence influences an individual’s behaviour in social situations and is associated with atypical emotional responses. This can preci...

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Main Authors: Ren Martin, Rachael Taylor, Clive Kelly
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2023-11-01
Series:Rheumato
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2674-0621/3/4/17
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author Ren Martin
Rachael Taylor
Clive Kelly
author_facet Ren Martin
Rachael Taylor
Clive Kelly
author_sort Ren Martin
collection DOAJ
description We experience life and interact with others in a multitude of ways. The term ‘neurodivergence’ refers to variations from what is considered typical or normal. Neurodivergence influences an individual’s behaviour in social situations and is associated with atypical emotional responses. This can precipitate inequity and rejection. Neurodivergent females are especially prone to many physical and psychological health issues, and musculoskeletal disorders account for a significant proportion of these. Research and education into neurodivergent conditions in females should inform the reassessment of clinicians’ present approach to those who present with multiple unexplained symptoms. Obtaining official confirmation of a neurodivergent condition improves access to support services and helps them and their family better understand themselves and the challenges they face. This commentary highlights the increased risk of developing rheumatological disease for females with neurodivergent conditions and suggests how clinicians might increase their awareness of this.
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spelling doaj.art-b809ee1ef31e4024a6f3c8a9083e515a2023-12-22T14:39:30ZengMDPI AGRheumato2674-06212023-11-013422122710.3390/rheumato3040017Recognising the Rheumatological Needs of Neurodivergent Females: CommentaryRen Martin0Rachael Taylor1Clive Kelly2Adolescent Autism Unit, Teesside University, Teesside, Middlesbrough TS 21 3EE, UKPsychology Department, Teesside University, Middlesbrough TS1 3BX, UKDepartment of Rheumatology, James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough TS4 3BW, UKWe experience life and interact with others in a multitude of ways. The term ‘neurodivergence’ refers to variations from what is considered typical or normal. Neurodivergence influences an individual’s behaviour in social situations and is associated with atypical emotional responses. This can precipitate inequity and rejection. Neurodivergent females are especially prone to many physical and psychological health issues, and musculoskeletal disorders account for a significant proportion of these. Research and education into neurodivergent conditions in females should inform the reassessment of clinicians’ present approach to those who present with multiple unexplained symptoms. Obtaining official confirmation of a neurodivergent condition improves access to support services and helps them and their family better understand themselves and the challenges they face. This commentary highlights the increased risk of developing rheumatological disease for females with neurodivergent conditions and suggests how clinicians might increase their awareness of this.https://www.mdpi.com/2674-0621/3/4/17neurodivergenceautismADHDhypermobilityrheumatoid arthritisosteoporosis
spellingShingle Ren Martin
Rachael Taylor
Clive Kelly
Recognising the Rheumatological Needs of Neurodivergent Females: Commentary
Rheumato
neurodivergence
autism
ADHD
hypermobility
rheumatoid arthritis
osteoporosis
title Recognising the Rheumatological Needs of Neurodivergent Females: Commentary
title_full Recognising the Rheumatological Needs of Neurodivergent Females: Commentary
title_fullStr Recognising the Rheumatological Needs of Neurodivergent Females: Commentary
title_full_unstemmed Recognising the Rheumatological Needs of Neurodivergent Females: Commentary
title_short Recognising the Rheumatological Needs of Neurodivergent Females: Commentary
title_sort recognising the rheumatological needs of neurodivergent females commentary
topic neurodivergence
autism
ADHD
hypermobility
rheumatoid arthritis
osteoporosis
url https://www.mdpi.com/2674-0621/3/4/17
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