Autism and ADHD: What Do We Know About Both Conditions

With the growing prevalence of autism and ADHD, it is important for us to understand more about both conditions. While there has been a lot of research conducted into both conditions, there are some important similarities between them that we should consider. By understanding more about both conditions, we are in a better position to support those affected by either condition.

What Is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological disorder that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and behaves. People with autism have difficulty with social skills, communication, processing sensory information, and repetitive behaviors. ASD affects individuals differently and can range from mild to severe.

What Is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulse control, and levels of activity. People with ADHD can struggle to focus and stay on task, often find it difficult to control their impulses, and can be hyperactive and overactive. ADHD can manifest as inattentive type (focusing difficulties), hyperactive type (overactivity), or combined type (both inattentive and hyperactive).

What Are the Common Symptoms of Autism and ADHD?

There are some common symptoms between both autism and ADHD, particularly when it comes to social difficulties, communication problems, and issues related to focus and concentration.

People with either condition can find it difficult to initiate and maintain social interactions, can have problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and can struggle to concentrate and stay on task.

What Are the Differences Between Autism and ADHD?

Although there are common symptoms between autism and ADHD, there are also some key differences between the two conditions. When it comes to social difficulties, people with autism tend to have impairments that are more intense, and those with ADHD tend to have more executive function difficulties and impulsivity. Additionally, people with autism have difficulty perceiving the social world, while people with ADHD have difficulty responding to it, so the two conditions can manifest differently.

How Are Autism and ADHD Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of both autism and ADHD is based on an evaluation of the individual, including observation, interviews with the patient and their caregivers, and assessment of behavior and symptoms. Autism is typically diagnosed in young children and is diagnosed using specific criteria derived from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). ADHD can occur at any age, but is typically diagnosed in children and adolescents, and is diagnosed using the DSM-5 criteria.

Undiagnosed Autistics

Unfortunately, many people on the autism spectrum go undiagnosed during their lifetime. Without a diagnosis, individuals on the spectrum can struggle to access appropriate supports and services that could benefit them, impacting their ability to access education and employment, manage social relationships, and thrive in other areas of their life.

Conclusion

By understanding more about autism and ADHD, we can better support those affected by either condition. While there are some key differences between the two conditions, there are also common symptoms that can help us identify and diagnose them. If you have concerns about whether you or someone you know may be on the autism spectrum, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional about getting a diagnosis.

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