We have so much in common! 

Understanding the overlap and distinction between ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may be two of the most commonly discussed childhood disorders impacting our youth’s learning and socialization. In the past forty years, the mental health community’s definition of these disorders has evolved and expanded as we learned more about what defines and distinguishes each disorder. 

As a clinician, I’ve seen so many students who present as having ASD and/or ADHD but are NOT properly diagnosed. Educating families about the importance of a proper diagnosis is important. So many kids with ASD or ADHD recognize that they are not neurotypical and can feel isolated, confused, or depressed; they sense that they are different but don’t know why. Helping a child understand how their brain works differently helps them with self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-advocacy. An accurate diagnosis can also help the student’s school, clinicians, and parents provide appropriate support and understand the why behind their students’ behavior like possible struggles with academics and social interactions. 

Why is it important to understand ADHD and Autism?

I’m proud to say at The Sycamore School, I’ve had students speak up during a morning meeting to explain that they have ADHD, so when peers have side conversations, it’s difficult for them to focus on the larger discussion. Other students advocate for headphones or to work outside the classroom, because they can get easily distracted by seemingly insignificant noises, like the squeaking of a chair or the whispers of a teacher. Students matter-of-factly talking about their disability is a breath of fresh air. It gives our community permission to be their authentic selves and own their differences versus trying to mask them or fit into some invisible construct. 

How do you define ADHD and Autism?

What defines and distinguishes Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder? How can I tell if my child may exhibit symptoms consistent with one or both of these diagnoses? 

Here are some behaviors that you should pay attention to: 

• Black-and-white (or concrete) thinking 
• Not understanding figurative language, sarcasm, or double entendres 
• Struggling to follow directions, especially multi-step directions 
• Difficulty with focus
• Intense but limited interests
• Enjoying being the “rules police”
• Easily distracted 
• Can hyperfocus (focus on a preferred activity for a long period of time)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Does your child like structure, a schedule, and routines? Do they require advanced notice of changes in routines? Are they overly sensitive to loud noises, clothing material, and food textures? Do they engage in hand flapping, pacing, or rocking? Are they good at memorizing facts? Do they like to repeat phrases they’ve heard? Do they have difficulty reading nonverbal cues? Does it feel like they talk AT you versus having a reciprocal conversation? If some of these traits resonate with you, your child might have ASD. 

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Does your child get easily bored? Do they crave novelty? Are they a daydreamer? Are they constantly on the go and fidgety? Do they often blurt out comments and seem to lack a filter? Do they become angry when you make them stop a preferred activity? Do they struggle to follow directions? Are they extremely disorganized? If some of these traits remind you of your child, they might have ADHD. 

Here’s the kicker: roughly 50-70% of individuals with Autism also have ADHD.

So, how are they alike and what distinguishes them?

Watch my talk “We Have so Much in Common! Understanding the Overlap and Distinction Between ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder” with CHADD below to learn more: