Navigating life with both ADHD and ASD: challenges and strategies
When a person is diagnosed with both Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it is referred to as comorbidity or co-occurrence of ADHD and ASD. Comorbidity between ADHD and ASD is relatively common, and research suggests that there is a higher likelihood of these conditions co-occurring than would be expected by chance alone. The exact reasons for the overlap between ADHD and ASD are not fully understood, but they likely involve complex interactions between genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors.
Differentiating Autism and ADHD:
When diagnosing a person with both ADHD and ASD, it is essential for healthcare professionals to carefully evaluate and differentiate the symptoms of each condition. This can sometimes be challenging because both ADHD and ASD may share certain features, such as difficulties with attention and social interactions. However, there are also distinct characteristics that can help distinguish between the two conditions. For example, individuals with ADHD typically show impairments in attention (full list of ADHD-related symptoms here), hyperactivity, and impulsivity, while those with ASD may have difficulties in social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviours (more on ASD here).
Impact of ADHD on Autism:
Co-occurring ADHD has a considerable impact on individuals with autism, leading to various additional challenges. People with autism and ADHD may experience difficulty in maintaining social relationships and social behaviour regulation, such as taking turns or resolving conflict. Individuals with both disorders may also demonstrate more severe symptoms of repetitive or ritualistic behaviours, sensory sensitivities, and coordination difficulties. To understand the difference between ADHD and autism when they occur separately, read this article.
Diagnosis:
A comprehensive evaluation by qualified healthcare professionals, often involving psychologists, speech pathologists, psychiatrists and paediatricians, is necessary to diagnose and differentiate between ADHD and ASD accurately. The process may include gathering information from various sources, such as interviews with the individual and their caregivers, behavioural observations, and standardized assessment tools. An important part of the assessment of both conditions is a thorough developmental information gathering. Several sessions will also need to be completed in person, as these conditions cannot be assessed purely based on online sessions. In Australia, we follow the ADHD and ASD assessment guidelines.
It is essential to recognise the presence of both conditions in an individual as it can impact treatment planning and intervention strategies. Addressing the specific needs of a person with comorbid ADHD and ASD requires a comprehensive and individualised approach to provide them with the best possible support and care.
Understanding co-occurring Autism (ASD) and ADHD has always been challenging for professionals due to the similarity and overlapping of cognitive, behavioural and neurobiological characteristics. Autism and ADHD are the two most common disorders that share several symptoms and often co-occur.
Treatment approaches for Autism and ADHD:
The treatment for autism and ADHD depends on the severity of the individual's symptoms and comorbidity with another disorder. Behavioural interventions, Psychological treatment and other support from Speech pathologists, Occupational therapists, Psychiatrists and Paediatricians are often needed. Autism-specific treatments are based on teaching social and developmental skills, such as communication and social interaction, sensory integration and emotional regulation. ADHD treatment often involves medication, such as stimulants and non-stimulant medications, and psycho-education on behavioural and organisational strategies.
In conclusion, autism and ADHD are two neurodevelopment disorders that can co-occur because of the overlapping symptoms. The correct diagnosis of these disorders is crucial for targeted interventions and support. The co-occurring of autism and ADHD can increase the complexity of symptoms and the challenges for individuals, their families, and professionals. Therefore, early intervention for both disorders is critical and can help improve outcomes and the quality of life for those affected. The use of behavioural interventions and psychological therapies, as well as multidisciplinary teams, and at times combined with medication, can offer individuals with autism and ADHD a range of options for support, providing them with a more comprehensive and personalised approach to treatment.
If you or your child has been recently diagnosed with ASD & ADHD you can have a look at Michaela’s 40min session “Creating insight into ASD & ADHD (for adults)”, or the caregiver version “Creating insight into your child’s ASD & ADHD (for caregivers)”.