Being Julia - A Personal Account of Living with Pathological Demand Avoidance

Ruth Fidler · Julia Daunt

Aug 2021 · Jessica Kingsley Publishers

About this ebook

Diagnosed with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) at aged 12 and writing this memoir at age 37, Julia Daunt depicts the ins and out of PDA and its symptoms, while maintaining a positive outlook on what is possible to achieve. Co-written with professional specialist Ruth Fidler, it covers how PDA impacts Julia's life, including meltdowns, sensory issues and communication in relationships.

Including examples of school reports and handwritten letters, a chapter written from Julia's partner's perspective and even an example of Julia's favourite recipe, this warm and personal look at living and thriving with PDA is informative and inspiring.

About the author

Ruth Fidler is Assistant Head Teacher at Sutherland House School run by the autism charity NORSACA. She works throughout the school (aged 3-19) developing whole school approaches to working interactively with children across the autism spectrum, with a particular focus on social and emotional well being.

Dr Judy Eaton is a clinical psychologist. She has assessed and worked with many girls with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with mental health issues in both in- and out-patient settings. She lives in Norfolk, UK.