An article looking at what it is like to be both autistic and ADHD, the intersection between them and the way traits can counteract, exacerbate or complement each other.

Many individuals diagnosed or identifying as Autistic or ADHD often come to recognise one neurodivergence before the other. Whether through formal assessment or self-identification, it’s common to resonate more strongly with traits of one condition at first. However, as we begin to understand ourselves through a neurodivergent lens, we may notice characteristics typically associated with the other neurotype start to emerge. There is a growing number of people now recognising they are Autistic and ADHD.

As an AuDHD therapist myself (meaning I’m both autistic and ADHD) I’ve had the privilege of working with many individuals who navigate the landscape of neurodivergence. But when autism and ADHD co occur, it can bring a unique set of challenges and strengths. There is an interplay between traits that creates a push-pull dynamic, often leading us to feel distinctly neurodivergent yet not fully fitting into either category.

This interplay between traits is the reason many people (particularly women or other marginalised groups) have gone undiagnosed for years. But as we understand more about how AuDHD presents, we can pick this apart a little and see what it means to be both autistic and ADHD.

It’s more common than you might first think – estimates suggest that 50-70% of autistic individuals also have ADHD. The increasing visibility of this intersection in popular culture and collective consciousness stems from significant shifts in diagnostic criteria. Until 2013, it was not possible to hold both diagnoses simultaneously; if an individual was diagnosed with one, they were typically excluded from being referred for the other.

As our understanding has evolved, the medical community has broadened its view of Autism and ADHD, and many people are now embracing self-identification as a valid way to understand their experiences. This trend is becoming more prevalent.

However, it remains frustratingly common—particularly given the lengthy waiting lists within children’s services—that some areas of the UK do not permit children to be on the referral pathway for both Autism and ADHD at the same time.

So how might Autistic and ADHD traits interact?

One aspect of AuDHD is how the traits of autism and ADHD might complement each other at times. For example, autistic individuals may possess a remarkable attention to detail and intense focus on our interests, qualities that can align with the hyperfocus often seen in ADHD. This synergy can lead to exceptional abilities in some areas.

However, the intersection of autism and ADHD is not without its challenges. The sensory sensitivities and rigid routines characteristic of autism can be further compounded by the impulsivity and distractibility associated with ADHD. This combination may exacerbate difficulties in regulating emotions, managing transitions, and coping with sensory overload.

Novelty vs Routine

So let’s take the very typical ADHD trait of seeking novelty. There is a craving for dopamine in the ADHD brain that has us seeking out different experiences to keep our interest.

And now let’s think about the very typical Autistic trait of seeking routine and familiarity.

At first glance these traits seem to be polar opposites and impossible to co-exist. Yet they do. For me, I will seek out novelty by wanting to go somewhere new or do something spontaneous but I also seek out routine and familiarity which manifests as planning, planning and more planning! Sometimes this amount of preparation (lists, scripting, research) might result in being too overwhelmed to actually do the spontaneous thing at all, burning me out in the process. At other times this contradiction will mean that I push myself into doing something new even though a part of me might rather stay at home.

No wonder then that I didn’t pick this neurodivergence up until my mid 30s. I struggled to identify as autistic because I socialised and coped with change. Conversely, I didn’t view myself as ADHD because I didn’t constantly succumb to impulsive urges, such as abandoning responsibilities or changing jobs impulsively. I failed to appreciate that both traits could coexist simultaneously.

There are also times when my juxtaposing traits are too much like a push/pull and I can end up in a sort of paralysis, where neither of the two competing traits work for me. It leaves me stuck in a sort of in-between, very hard to get out of.

AuDHD in women and girls

It’s essential to recognise the gender differences in AuDHD, particularly concerning women and those AFAB (Assigned Female At Birth). Historically, Autism and ADHD have been underdiagnosed and misunderstood in females, as their symptoms may present differently or be masked by societal expectations. As we might mask so heavily we can feel like we’re just not trying hard enough, or feel like an imposter in our own life.

The good news is we understand more now than we ever have. Most of us have access to a wealth of information at our fingertips, and social media platforms where we can see ourselves represented in the media.

In my therapy practice, I’ve seen first hand the transformative power of embracing the intersection of Autism and ADHD. Building self awareness is the most empowering thing you can do for yourself, and I think finding other neurodivergent people (whether that’s a therapist, family or friend) who can walk alongside you in this journey is an incredible tool.

Amy is the founder and lead counsellor at Newglade. Newglade provides a range of specialist neurodivergent services including in person and online counselling, parent support, professional training and therapist support/supervision. Please contact us for more information.