Dr Mary Doherty, Clinical Associate Professor at UCD School of Medicine

Recent groundbreaking research examining the experiences of autistic psychiatrists has found that those who are unaware of their own autism may struggle to recognize the condition in their patients. This study, conducted by researchers from University College Dublin, London South Bank University, and Brighton and Sussex Medical School, is the first of its kind to explore the lives of neurodivergent psychiatrists. It was published today in BJPsych Open.

Dr. Mary Doherty, a Clinical Associate Professor at UCD School of Medicine, stated, “Understanding that you are autistic can be a transformative experience.” She also noted that over 187,000 people in England are currently waiting for an autism assessment. The situation becomes even more challenging when psychiatrists, who may be unaware of their own autism, misdiagnose patients. Greater recognition of autism could provide benefits for both psychiatrists and their patients.

The research team, consisting of medical professionals and academics who identify as neurodivergent, conducted in-depth interviews with eight senior psychiatrists based in the UK. Six of these psychiatrists are consultants working within the NHS. Their specialities include a range of areas, from Child and Adolescent Mental Health to adult services, including intellectual disabilities.

The study examined how psychiatrists came to realize they were autistic, often through personal experiences like their child’s diagnosis or by noticing similarities between themselves and their autistic patients. Notably, some were even identified as autistic by their own patients.

Once self-recognition took place, psychiatrists began to notice that many of their colleagues—particularly those specializing in autism or ADHD—might also be autistic without realizing it. This lack of awareness can lead to significant consequences, as these psychiatrists may unintentionally overlook the diagnosis in their autistic patients. However, after becoming aware of their own neurodivergence, the psychiatrists found it easier to recognize autism in others and to establish strong therapeutic relationships.

The study also revealed that understanding their own autism had a positive impact on the psychiatrists’ self-esteem and mental health. However, the researchers pointed out that many patients miss out on this benefit when assessed by psychiatrists who, while sharing their experiences, do not recognise they are also autistic.