Camouflaging ADHD + Autistic Traits in Girls with Millie Carr [re-release]
If you’ve ever wondered why your daughter seems to struggle quietly while excelling on the surface – or if you’re reflecting on your own experiences as a neurodivergent mum – this episode is for you.
I’m joined by Millie Carr, a passionate educator, author, and mum of three, to unpack the subtle and often misunderstood ways ADHD and autism show up in girls. With lived experience as part of a neurodivergent family, Millie shares her insights on recognising masking, perfectionism, and other traits that can make it harder for girls to be diagnosed or supported.
This episode is here to give you practical tips and validation – whether you’re advocating for your child, yourself, or both.
In this episode:
- The unique ways ADHD and autism present in girls and why they’re often overlooked.
- How masking and perfectionism can make neurodivergent traits harder to recognise.
- Practical tips for navigating the diagnosis process and advocating effectively.
- Reframing ADHD and autism as strengths and building confidence in neurodivergent kids.
Important Resources:
- Learn more about Millie’s work at https://milliecarrbooks.com
- Explore my self-assessment tool for ADHD and Autism
- When and where to seek a diagnosis for your child – eGuide here
- My free resources are here
- My Workbooks and eGuides are here
Other Episodes with Mille Carr:
- Neurodiverse Classrooms: Spotify or Apple Podcasts
- How to Tell Your Child About Their Diagnosis: Essential Do’s and Don’ts: Spotify or Apple Podcasts
JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook grouphereand dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at jane@adhdmums.com.au.
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-testshere.
Key Topics covered in this ep: ADHD masking in girls Autism masking in children Neurodivergent parenting tips Recognising ADHD in girls Late ADHD diagnosis in adults Signs of autism in girls ADHD and autism in Australia Supporting neurodivergent children Emotional regulation for kids Early intervention for ADHD ADHD diagnosis process Australia Teacher resources for ADHD ADHD in high-masking individuals Understanding inattentive ADHD Perfectionism in neurodivergent children
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Key Takeaways from Today’s Episode:
What we cover in this episode:
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How ADHD and Autism Traits Overlap in Mums:
Dr Jacinta Thomson explains why so many women don’t realise they’re autistic until adulthood—especially if they’ve already been diagnosed with ADHD. -
Masking and Misdiagnosis:
Many neurodivergent mums mask their traits so well that even clinicians miss the signs. Social mimicry, people-pleasing, and emotional shutdowns are common coping mechanisms. -
Self-Identification Is Valid:
You don’t need a formal autism diagnosis to start exploring your identity or accessing helpful strategies. The episode affirms that you can say “I’m autistic” even without paperwork. -
Sensory Differences in Mums:
From clothing issues (bras, tags, tight jeans) to noise sensitivity and a need for predictability, Dr Jacinta explores the lesser-known sensory traits that often go unnoticed in women. -
Living with AuDHD:
The episode offers practical advice for navigating the double-load of ADHD’s need for stimulation and autism’s craving for routine—plus what actually helps manage both.
This episode is for you if:
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You’ve been diagnosed with ADHD but suspect there might be more going on — especially around sensory issues, overwhelm, or burnout.
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You’re wondering if you might also be autistic, even if no one’s ever mentioned it before.
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You’ve always felt like you were “performing” in social situations or parenting — and it’s exhausting.
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You’re hypersensitive to things like noise, clothing textures, or chaos at home, and you’ve been told to just “get over it.”
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You’re the kind of person who needs both structure and novelty — and managing both feels like an emotional juggling act.
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You want validation that self-identifying as autistic is completely valid, even without a formal diagnosis.
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You’re craving a neuro-affirming explanation for why you feel the way you do — without shame or pressure to mask.
