AuDHD: Understanding Combined Autism and ADHD in Young People
For many years, clinicians believed a person could not have both autism and ADHD.
We have known for some time that this is incorrect. I have been assessing both conditions for 15 years, and was fortunate to work in one of the first teams (Northamptonshire specialist adult ND service) that recognised that Autism and ADHD often exist together and there are substantial overlaps.
In fact, it is increasingly recognised that many individuals experience both conditions simultaneously. This combination is often referred to as AuDHD. It is really important to be aware that AuDHD is not a formal diagnosis, just a popular way to think about combined Autism and ADHD. It is increasingly commonly diagnosed though.
It is vital to always consider both conditions
Due to the significant overlap, roughly 20-40% crossover, you cannot assess for Autism, without considering the possibility of ADHD as well, and vice versa. Any diagnostic assessor must be familiar with both autism and ADHD, as well as wider factors, especially mental health considerations. This is to rule out other explanations.
What does AuDHD / Combined Autism/ADHD look like?
People with the combined presentation often experience an interesting mixture of seemingly contradictory characteristics.
For example:
They may:
- Crave routine but become bored by it.
- Enjoy social contact but find it exhausting.
- Be highly organised in one area but chaotic in another.
- Seek stimulation while also becoming overwhelmed by sensory input.
This combination can leave young people feeling confused about why they seem to have opposing needs.
Why is combined Autism / ADHD often diagnosed later?
One condition can sometimes mask the other.
For example:
The social motivation often associated with ADHD may disguise autistic communication differences.
Conversely, autistic routines and structure may partially compensate for ADHD-related difficulties.
As a result, many people receive one diagnosis before the other, sometimes years apart.
Assessment is about understanding the whole person
At Clear Sky Therapies, we recognise that neurodevelopmental conditions rarely exist in isolation.
During assessment we consider:
- Developmental history
- Communication
- Attention
- Executive functioning
- Sensory processing
- Physical health factors
- Drug and alcohol issues
- Risk issues
- Relationships
- Trauma
- Emotional wellbeing
- Strengths as well as challenges.
Rather than trying to fit people neatly into categories, our aim is to understand how different aspects of their neurodevelopment interact.
Why an accurate assessment matters?
Understanding both autism and ADHD can help explain experiences that previously seemed contradictory.
It can also guide:
- educational support
- workplace adjustments
- therapeutic approaches
- medication decisions (where appropriate)
- self-understanding.
Most importantly, it can help young people develop a more compassionate understanding of themselves.
Considering an AuDHD assessment?
If you recognise aspects of both autism and ADHD, we can help determine whether one, both or neither condition best explains your experiences through a comprehensive, evidence-based assessment.