ADHD

• This term refers to people who are both autistic (Autism Spectrum Condition) and have ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder).
• Both are neurodevelopmental conditions, meaning they affect brain development and functioning from childhood, though traits last into adulthood.

• Many autistic people also have ADHD, and vice versa.
• Studies suggest 30–80% of autistic people also meet criteria for ADHD.
• In the past, it was thought you could only have one or the other—diagnosis rules have changed to recognize you can have both.

• Differences in social communication (e.g., interpreting tone, facial expressions).
• Preference for routine and predictability.
• Sensory differences (hypersensitive or hyposensitive to sound, light, touch, etc.).
• Focused interests or “deep dives” into specific topics.

• Challenges with attention regulation (difficulty sustaining attention, or hyperfocus on certain tasks).
• Impulsivity (acting without much forethought).
• Hyperactivity (physical restlessness or “mental hyperactivity”).
• Struggles with organization and time management.

• Sensory overload may be intensified because both conditions can heighten sensitivity.
• Focus patterns may swing between ADHD-style distractibility and autism-style hyperfocus.
• Social energy may fluctuate: wanting interaction (ADHD trait) but feeling drained or needing alone time (autism trait).
• Executive function challenges (planning, task initiation, switching tasks) may be stronger because both conditions can affect these skills.

• Creative problem-solving.
• Ability to spot patterns and connections others miss.
• Passion and persistence in areas of interest.
• Adaptability in thinking when supported well.

• Sensory tools (noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools).
• Visual schedules and reminders.
• Break tasks into steps to reduce overwhelm.
• Interest-based learning or work to harness focus.
• Understanding environments that work best for them (quiet vs. stimulating).

• Symptoms can mask each other—e.g., hyperactivity might be overlooked if deep focus is present.
• Girls and women with AuDHD are especially underdiagnosed because traits can present differently from stereotypes.
• Early recognition can help with accommodations in school, work, and daily life.