is it autism or borderline personality disorder? (exploring psychiatric label stigma with dr. jay watts)

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Jay Watts and I dive into the unique challenges faced by women with autism and explore how common traits are often misunderstood or overlooked in psychiatric settings. We discuss why women are less likely to be diagnosed with autism, how “masking” and “camouflaging” can conceal autistic traits in women and girls, and the impact of these strategies on mental health. From “special interests” to subtle social cues, we explore how autism manifests differently in women—and why these differences matter in both diagnosis and treatment.Dr. Watts also shares insights into the deeply misunderstood labels of BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) and cPTSD, uncovering how trauma often underpins these traits and why individuals with these diagnoses experience chronic feelings of emptiness, self-doubt, and even suicidality. We discuss the often overlooked risks of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and how crucial informed consent is in psychiatric treatment, particularly around therapy choices and medications. Dr. Jay Watts, a respected clinical psychologist, psychotherapist, lecturer, and mental health activist based in London, brings her expertise from decades in clinical practice and academic roles within the UK’s National Health Service.Topics explored in this episode:Why autism diagnoses are often missed in womenThe impact of “masking” and “camouflaging” strategies on mental healthIdentifying unique “special interests” in women with autismThe stigma surrounding BPD and cPTSD and its roots in traumaUnderstanding the emotional toll of chronic emptiness and suicidalityPotential risks of DBT and the need for informed consent in psychiatric careTune in for an insightful discussion that challenges conventional perspectives on mental health diagnoses, autism, and trauma, and empowers listeners to seek deeper understanding and agency in their own mental health journeys.JAY’S RECOMMENDED RESOURCES:■ Follow Jay on Twitter @Shrink_at_Large■ Jay’s articles about BPD and trauma can be found here■ Protest letter about removing BPD from the diagnostic manual, ICD11 can be found here■ A Simple Guide To Avoid Receiving A Diagnosis Of ‘Personality Disorder’Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of exclusive content on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.