Can You Have Autism and ADHD?

In short, yes, you can have autism and ADHD. As both have shared common symptoms, a dual diagnosis is actually more common than you may think. 

However, these neurodivergent conditions are too complex and personal to rely on such a blanket answer. Each case of autism and ADHD is unique to the person, and it’s important to treat them as such. 

To answer the question of whether you can have autism and ADHD properly, we’ll look into what each condition is, how they overlap, and ways in which they differ, too.

Is It Possible to Be Diagnosed with Autism and ADHD?

Yes, you can have autism and ADHD. In fact, studies show that up to 70% of people with autism also have ADHD. 

Both autism and ADHD share common symptoms which impact emotional regulation, sensory areas, and executive functions, such as the ability to plan, retain information, and control impulses. 

However, while the two disorders often co-exist, it’s important to remember they are individual conditions and should be treated accordingly. 

What is Autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting how people perceive the world and present themselves in everyday life. 

As it’s neurodevelopmental, it impacts how a person’s brain develops and functions. As such, common symptoms include difficulty understanding others’ emotions, keeping strict routines, and hyperfixations or repetitive habits.

It’s considered a spectrum, meaning it affects each person differently. While one person with autism may struggle to make friends, another could excel in social interaction. The NHS emphasises everyone with autism is different and should be treated as individuals.

What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder causing the brain to work in a way that is different to most people, according to the NHS. 

People with ADHD often have high levels of energy, find it difficult to control impulses, and may also struggle to pay attention. As a result, symptoms include being easily distracted, forgetful, interrupting conversations, restlessness, and losing personal possessions.

How Do ADHD and Autism Overlap?

As they’re both neurodevelopmental disorders, autism and ADHD often overlap when it comes to the symptoms. 

In fact, research suggests the two disorders co-occur more often than not. While not all the symptoms of ADHD and autism are the same, there are some common traits found in both conditions, such as: 

• Difficulties planning
• Repetitive behaviour
• Socially anxious
• Hyperfixations 
• Struggles with emotional regulation
• Hypersensitivity to sound, light, or texture

When ADHD and autism occur at the same time, it is referred to as AuDHD, suggests autism organisation Autistica. While it’s not yet recognised as an official condition, some people with both ADHD and autism prefer to use AuDHD to describe a co-occurrence of the two.

What’s the Difference Between ADHD and Autism?

The main difference between ADHD and autism is how they’re characterised, specifically in the areas they affect. 

Autism is characterised by ongoing difficulties with social interaction and communication, while ADHD primarily impacts self-regulation, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, there are other differences between the two to be aware of.

Alongside the difference between ADHD and autism symptoms, there are also differences in the way the two disorders are diagnosed. 

With ADHD assessments, doctors typically look at how much symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity interfere with day-to-day life. To diagnose autism, it’s more about assessing behavioural traits, communication skills, and social interactions.

What Should I Do If I Think I Have Autism or ADHD?

If you think you or a loved one may have autism and ADHD, the best thing to do is arrange an appointment with your GP. 

Your doctor will discuss referrals with you to ensure you get a formal assessment and accurate diagnosis. It can be useful to track any symptoms you have noticed yourself ahead of the appointment, as this can help build a picture of the impact it has on your daily life. 

According to the NHS, wait times for ADHD and autism assessments are very long. Speaking to another doctor for a second opinion can help you get an assessment. However, you can also explore diagnosis from a private clinic, where the wait times are much shorter. 

Try taking our ADHD quiz or autism test to help understand what is going on for you or a loved one showing signs of neurodivergence.

Neuroaffinity Provides Expert Diagnosis for Autism and ADHD

Here at Neuroaffinity, we provide professional diagnosis assessments for both autism and ADHD. 

With us, you can skip the lengthy queues to get an accurate diagnosis faster and without the added stress of wait times. Offering years of professional practice from a team dedicated to ensuring an accurate diagnosis, you can trust us to provide accurate, honest advice. 

Give us a call today to arrange your assessment with our expert team. You can reach us via phone on 0776 856 5162 or fill out the contact form on our website. Looking for more advice on neurodivergent conditions? Find out the difference between ADHD and ADD, or how autism and anxiety are related, over on our blog.