Trans and neurodivergent – more common than you think

Autism is one of the ways of being that comes under the umbrella term ‘neurodivergent’. Neurodiversity means that some people’s brains handle information differently from others. This leads to differences in the way that people learn, manage their emotions and get along with others.

Research shows that Autistic people are more likely to be trans or gender diverse, but little is known about why. In Australia 22.5% of trans and gender diverse youth have an Autism diagnosis. It's a surprisingly common crossover, especially considering only 1% of the general population are Autistic.

But, it can be hard navigating a world set up for neurotypical and cisgender folks

Due to a range of factors, including peer rejection, issues at school and work, bullying, discrimination, and difficulty accessing appropriate services, Autistic people and trans people are more likely to experience mental ill health.

Data from surveys show that up to 46% of Autistic children between 3–16 years and 70% of Autistic children aged 10–14 experience at least one mental health condition.

In Australia today, 80% of transgender young people self-harm and 48% attempt suicide by the time they are 24-years-old. In Aotearoa New Zealand, 40% of transgender students have experienced significant depressive symptoms and nearly half have self-harmed; one in five have attempted suicide.

Let's put their voices front and centre

Recent studies by YouGov revealed that 78% of Australians believe that transgender people deserve the same rights and respect as anybody else. However, that number rises to 93% when people know a trans person.

When a young trans or gender diverse person is supported by their parents, family, friends, school, and community, and they are affirmed in their gender identity, their mental health outcomes are greatly improved (Trans Pathways Report, 2017).

The same is true for Autistic people; meaningful social support and access to appropriate services are buffers against mental health conditions (Autism CRC, 2021).

Who I Am amplifies the voice of trans and neurodivergent youth and builds understanding and community support, particularly among young people, parents, teachers and healthcare professionals.

Our generous supporters have helped us to

• Deliver a series of sensory-friendly cinema screenings and panel discussions across Australia aligned with Pride month and Autistic Pride Day in June 2023

• Put in place appropriate support for our film participants Aether and Anthea throughout the film’s release, including training to protect themselves on social media, and remuneration for the work they do to promote the film

• Created a Discussion Guide designed for viewers to engage with the film's themes after watching it in cinemas, in the community, or online/TV via 10 play

But we could do even more. With your help, we can

• Develop video and written resources for trans and Autistic young people, parents/carers, support workers and healthcare workers, in partnership with Amaze and the Royal Children’s Hospital Gender Service

• Marketing and outreach to schools in Australia to promote screenings in schools and the curriculum-aligned Teaching & Learning Guide

• Implement a host-a-screening program targeted at community organisations that work with young people, parents/carers, support workers, and healthcare workers