Singer Cat Burns has opened up about her recent ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnoses, saying they have given her a better understanding of herself. The 23-year-old, known for hits like 'People Pleaser', told BBC Newsbeat that life now 'makes sense' after receiving the diagnoses.
Cat was diagnosed with ADHD in 2021 and with ASD in April this year. She says the process of getting diagnosed was not straightforward, largely because she is a black woman. 'I think it comes from the research that's out there and the idea lots believe women can't have autism, and then on top of that adults can't have autism,' she said. 'It needs to be across the board, but especially with women and black women.'
Cat highlighted that symptoms of ADHD and ASD can present differently depending on a person's background. For example, she noted that a black woman might fidget by taking out and putting back in her braids – a cultural behaviour that may be overlooked. She also spoke about how performing can be challenging due to sensory sensitivities, but that she goes into 'auto-pilot' on stage.
Cat shared her story while at London's Jazz Café, where she performed as part of the United By Music Tour supporting grassroots venues. The Music Venues Trust reports that 49 venues have closed in the last 12 months, and Cat stressed the importance of such spaces for emerging artists. 'We struggle financially when working out how we'll be able to go on tour and that's why it's so important to have these grassroots venues available for us to perform at,' she said.
