Best Books, Websites & Resources for Autism and ADHD (Pre and Post Diagnosis)
- VHC team
- Feb 10
- 3 min read
Finding out you might be Autistic or have ADHD, or receiving a diagnosis, can bring up a lot of feelings. Maybe theres relief, confusion, validation, grief, or curiosity. or maybe all at once.
Whether you’re considering an assessment, have been recently diagnosed, or are simply looking for resources to help you understand yourself (or someone else) a little better, we hope this post is a helpful starting point.
This list is by no means exhaustive. There are so many thoughtful, insightful resources out there. Here, we’ve shared just a small selection that our team and community have found helpful along the way.
If you’re looking for more, we also have a resources page on our website, with filters to help you find exactly what you're needing at any given time - resources page link
A Quick Guide to What's Ahead:
Before Diagnosis: Exploring Neurodivergence
If you’re at the stage of wondering “Could this be me?”, you’re not alone. Many people spend months or years wondering whether there might be another explanation for what they’ve been told about themselves before seeking an assessment.
Am I Autistic? Signs of Autism in Adults and the Impact of Masking
By Neurodivergent Insights.
A thoughtful, lived-experience article exploring adult autism, masking, late diagnosis, and identity — See More
Could I Have ADHD? Signs, Experiences and Self-Discovery
By Exhale Psychology
A clear and compassionate guide for ADHDers thinking “Could it be me?”, exploring signs, experiences, and pathways to self-discovery — See More
Understanding the Differences and Overlaps Between ADHD and Autism
A self-plug, but we think a relevant one! We’ve written a post exploring how autism and ADHD present uniquely, how they often co-occur, and what is shared across neurodivergence — See More
Just Diagnosed?
If you’ve recently received a diagnosis, or are beginning to identify as neurodivergent, welcome! This stage can feel both grounding and disorienting at the same time. For many people, this stage also marks the beginning of a deeper journey into self-understanding and, we hope, self-acceptance.
The neurodivergent community has been reshaping terminology in neuro-affirming ways, and it can feel overwhelming at first, cue our first recommendation...
Neurodiversity Lingo: A Pocket Guide
By Anna Clarke
A compact, plain-language guide that explains common neurodiversity-affirming terms — See More
For Those Wanting Something Shorter
What It’s Like to Be an AuDHDer
By Monique Mitchelson
A brief, insightful guide for people who identify as both Autistic and ADHD (AuDHD). It captures the unique mix of strengths and challenges in a way many people feel deeply seen by — See More
Handbook for the Late Diagnosed Neurodivergent
By Fae Wolfe
A beautifully designed 30-page e-guide for anyone navigating a late diagnosis. We especially love the visuals — See More
For Those Wanting a Longer Read (or Listen)
The Year I Met My Brain
By Matilda Boseley
A personal favourite among some of our team. Warm, funny, and deeply validating for adults discovering their ADHD later in life. Check your local book store, or it's also available as an ebook and audiobook — See More
YouTube Channels We Enjoy
I’m Autistic, Now What?
Meg, a late-diagnosed AuDHDer (Autistic & ADHD), shares her lived experience, practical support, and humour-infused reflections — See More
Orion Kelly — That Autistic Guy
An Australian Autistic author and advocate creating honest, accessible content for Autistic people and their communities — See More
For Parents and Carers of Neurodivergent Children
This could easily be a whole post on its own, but here are two resources we love.
Brain Forest
Written by Sandhya Menon, illustrated by Kushla Ross
A beautifully illustrated children’s book celebrating neurodiversity and different neurotypes. Suitable for ages 5–10 (though that hasn't stopped us from enjoying it!) — See More
Start Here: A Guide for Parents of Autistic Kids
Written by the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (the same organisation that collaborated with Mattel in developing Autistic Barbie!)
A neuro-affirming, strengths-based guide for parents of newly diagnosed autistic children —See More
A Final Note
Finding the right resources is often part of making sense of yourself, your child, and your loved ones. If you’re looking for more tailored support, our team is always happy to help point you in the right direction.
For more information about our support, please contact us here.
Comments