The Irish Health Survey included several questions on neurodiversity. Someone may consider themselves to be, or be diagnosed as, neurodiverse if they are autistic; have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); have dyspraxia (difficulty in physical coordination) or other neurodivergent conditions; have differences in social preferences; have differences in ways of learning; communicate or perceive the world around themselves differently; or are particularly sensitive to noise or lighting.
Respondents were asked if they have ever been diagnosed with autism. Younger adults were more likely to say yes, which may reflect the relatively recent expansion of diagnostic practices in Ireland. Among 15 to 24 year‑olds, 7.7% of males had received an autism diagnosis, compared with 4.5% of females, roughly half the male rate.
Respondents were also asked if they have ever been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Males aged 25 to 34 years were the most likely to have a diagnosis for ADHD at 6.2% compared with 2.7% for females the same age. In the older age groups, females were more likely to have a diagnosis for ADHD than males.
Respondents were also asked if they suspect they may have autism, ADHD or another neurodivergent condition. At almost four in ten (38.2%), females aged 15 to 24 years were the most likely to report having either a diagnosed or suspected neurodivergent condition.
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