Is it AuDHD When to Consider an ADHD Evaluation with Autism?
Have you heard the term AuDHD? Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (Autism) are both neurodevelopmental conditions that can have overlapping traits, making it challenging for individuals, families, and even clinicians to distinguish between them.
While they are distinct conditions with their diagnostic criteria, their commonalities can sometimes lead to confusion or misdiagnosis. They often occur together, making the distinctions even more challenging to identify—hence the term AuDHD, which people who identify with both, have adopted.
To make this even more challenging, traits of one condition can sometimes “cover” traits of the other. For example, untreated ADHD can sometimes mean that hyperactive and impulsive traits are much more obvious than autistic traits, or unaccommodated autistic traits can sometimes seem much more apparent than inattentive traits.
Because of this, it is common for a person to be diagnosed with one condition years before the second condition is diagnosed, although the two can also be diagnosed at the same time. Recognizing the similarities and understanding when to pursue an ADHD evaluation can be crucial for individuals who may already be diagnosed with Autism or those who are wondering if it makes sense to be evaluated for both autism and ADHD.
Read More: How To Supporting a Loved One Newly Diagnosed with Autism?
Commonalities Between ADHD and Autism
Before we get into when you should seek an evaluation for ADHD, let’s explore some of the shared characteristics between ADHD and Autism:
- Difficulty with Social Interactions: Both individuals with ADHD and those who are autistic may struggle with social cues and maintaining friendships, although the reasons for these difficulties may differ.
- Executive Function Challenges: Problems with organization, planning, and maintaining focus are common in both ADHD and Autism, affecting daily functioning and academic performance.
- Impulsivity and Behavioural Issues: Impulsive behavior and difficulty regulating emotions can be present in both conditions, leading to challenges in various settings.
- Hyperfocus vs. Special Interests: While individuals with ADHD can experience periods of hyperfocus, those with Autism may have intense and specific special interests.
- Sensory Processing Difficulties: Sensory sensitivities, such as aversion to certain sounds, textures, or lights, can be common in both conditions.
- Resistance to Change: A preference for routine and challenges with transitions can be seen in both ADHD and Autism, although it may be more pronounced in Autism.
When to Ask for an ADHD Evaluation
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties that overlap with both ADHD and Autism, it may be time to consider an ADHD evaluation. Here are some scenarios that might suggest ADHD:
- Persistent Inattention: If there are ongoing difficulties with sustaining attention that are not solely attributable to Autism-related challenges.
- Hyperactivity that Extends Beyond Stimulus-Driven Behaviour: Autistic individuals may exhibit hyperactive behavior in response to overstimulation, but if hyperactivity is consistent and pervasive, it could indicate ADHD.
- Impulsivity Unrelated to Social Misunderstandings: While social impulsivity can be part of Autism, impulsive actions that occur across various contexts might suggest ADHD.
- Difficulty with Task Initiation and Completion: When procrastination or the inability to finish tasks is not solely due to Autism-related executive function issues.
- Disproportionate Struggles with Organization: If organizational challenges are severe and impact daily life significantly, it could be a sign of ADHD.
- Emotional Dysregulation Not Explained by Sensory Sensitivities: Emotional outbursts or mood swings that aren’t directly tied to sensory issues may warrant an ADHD evaluation.
- Inconsistent Performance in Different Settings: Fluctuating ability to perform in various environments—excelling in structured settings but struggling in less structured ones—might be indicative of ADHD.
- Family History of ADHD: A family history of ADHD may increase the likelihood that similar symptoms could be related to ADHD rather than Autism alone.
Read More: Autistic Adults Are Getting Their Moment In The Media
Conclusion
Both ADHD and autism can significantly impact one’s life and having the correct diagnosis can help a person get appropriate adaptations and accommodations. It’s important to remember that having one of these conditions does not exclude the possibility of having the other, as co-occurring ADHD and Autism are common.
A thorough evaluation conducted by a qualified professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, is essential for an accurate diagnosis. This evaluation can help clarify the diagnosis, leading to more targeted and effective support and strategies. If you suspect that ADHD might be part of the picture, don’t hesitate to seek a professional evaluation. Understanding the full scope of one’s neurodiversity is a critical step toward receiving appropriate support and maximizing one’s potential.
Dr. Jessica Myszak and Dr. Jaime Long have significant experience performing psychological evaluations with children and adults. They offer both in-person and telehealth evaluations for children, teens, and adults looking for answers. In addition to seeing clients on the Chicago North Shore, they can work with families who reside in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Washington DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming!
Dr. Jaime Long is also now available to see clients in New York and California. If you are interested in learning more about potentially working with them, you can visit their contact here to get the process started.