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Blog


AUDHD: WHEN AUTISM AND ADHD MEET


RESEARCH INDICATES A SIGNIFICANT OVERLAP BETWEEN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD)
AND ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD), CALLED AUDHD. WHILE NOT
OFFICIALLY RECOGNISED IN CLINICAL SETTINGS, IT HAS GAINED POPULARITY AS A WAY
FOR INDIVIDUALS TO ARTICULATE THEIR UNIQUE NEUROLOGICAL PROFILES. THIS BLOG POST
EXPLORES THE COMPLEX ASPECTS OF AUDHD, ADDRESSING ITS IMPACT ON DAILY LIFE AND
HOW HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS OFFER TAILORED SUPPORT.




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TABLE OF CONTENTS

 1. What is AuDHD?
 2. AuDHD Symptoms and Traits
 3. Challenges of AuDHD
 4. Diagnostic Challenges
 5. Treatment and Support Approaches
 6. Impact on Daily Life and Functioning
 7. Unique Community Services Support Individuals with AuDHD


WHAT IS AUDHD?

AuDHD, a term coined by the neurodivergent community, represents the coexistence
of autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Research
indicates a substantial overlap between autism and ADHD, with 50% to 70% of
autistic individuals also meeting the criteria for ADHD. While not formally
recognised in clinical settings, AuDHD has gained popularity as a way for
individuals to articulate their unique neurological profiles, highlighting the
interconnected nature of autism and ADHD.

Individuals with AuDHD may face challenges based on the dual diagnosis and the
associated stigma linked to both Autism and ADHD. The world, designed with the
preferences of neurotypical individuals, presents additional challenges for
individuals with neurodivergent differences. “Neurotypical” refers to
individuals with typical neurological development, while “neurodivergent”
encompasses individuals with different brain processes. Although support groups
can be valuable resources, there’s a noticeable lack of groups specifically
addressing AuDHD, potentially leading individuals to feel compelled to
prioritise one diagnosis over the other.

AuDHD manifests uniquely in each individual, showcasing distinct patterns in
attention allocation and a tendency for intense emotions. Consequently, a
personalised and person-centred approach is strongly recommended when developing
support plans. This tailored approach ensures that individuals can effectively
pursue and achieve their goals while navigating the complexities of this
neurodivergent difference.


AUDHD SYMPTOMS AND TRAITS

Navigating life with AuDHD involves understanding the overlapping symptoms of
both autism and ADHD, which can present a distinctive set of challenges and
strengths for individuals. Autistic individuals typically lean towards routines,
consistency, predictability, and sustained interests. In contrast, individuals
with ADHD often thrive in environments offering stimulation, variety, and
chances for creativity. AuDHD thus presents a combination of these traits, where
individuals may crave routine but encounter disruptions easily.

Symptoms of AuDHD include:

 * Impulsivity
 * Learning differences
 * Social difficulties
 * Inattention
 * Emotional dysregulation
 * Stimming behaviours
 * Sensory challenges
 * Executive function challenges

These overlapping symptoms and traits of AuDHD emphasise the need for tailored
support strategies that acknowledge and address the complexities of this dual
neurotype.


CHALLENGES OF AUDHD

The manifestation of unique thinking styles characterised by unconventional
problem-solving and perception approaches is a strength of AuDHD. However, it
can lead to additional challenges in education and employment if approaches are
not tailored to the individual or inclusive. Another prominent challenge is
sensory overload, resulting from the overlap of autism-related sensitivities and
ADHD-related impulsivity and hyperactivity. Social interaction challenges also
contribute to difficulties in building and sustaining relationships, with
individuals often struggling to understand social cues and norms. Additionally,
individuals often mask some of the behaviours with AuDHD that add complexity to
their interpersonal interactions.


DIAGNOSTIC CHALLENGES

AuDHD is not recognised in clinical settings, but individuals can be diagnosed
with both autism and ADHD separately. The diagnostic process for individuals
requires a comprehensive assessment, considering many factors, behaviours, and
developmental histories. The diverse manifestations of AuDHD pose an additional
challenge, given the differing symptoms of autism and ADHD, making it
challenging to establish standardised diagnostic criteria. Also, coexisting
conditions like anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities commonly accompany
AuDHD.

Continuous updates in diagnostic criteria evolution demand healthcare
professionals to stay informed about the latest research and guidelines.
Addressing these diagnostic challenges requires a collaborative,
multidisciplinary approach involving psychologists, developmental specialists,
educators, and other relevant professionals.


DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AUDHD AND ADHD

Challenges with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are common for people
with ADHD. On the other hand, AuDHD introduces an additional layer of complexity
by combining the distinctive symptoms and traits of autism. Individuals with
AuDHD encounter a combination of symptoms, including attentional difficulties,
sensory sensitivities, and challenges in social communication. The coexistence
of autism and ADHD links the diverse cognitive patterns and behaviours
associated with each neurotype. Consequently, tailored interventions and
personalised approaches are important to improve quality of life.


TREATMENT AND SUPPORT APPROACHES

Treatment and support for individuals with AuDHD include proactive approaches.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a valuable tool, providing individuals
with strategies to manage emotions, improve focus, and harness creativity. This
therapy offers a gradual skill development process under the guidance of trained
professionals. Executive Function Therapy (EFT) is specialised in improving the
cognitive skills that help people manage life effectively. It helps individuals
strengthen their executive functions skills such as task organisation, time
management, and attention control.

Psychoeducation plays a vital role in offering information and empowerment to
individuals, families, or groups about mental health challenges related to
AuDHD. Educational and vocational support tailored to individual needs ensures
success in learning or working environments. Medical treatments to manage ADHD
symptoms are also recommended. However, these medications are most effective
when combined with other strategies, such as therapy and lifestyle changes.


IMPACT ON DAILY LIFE AND FUNCTIONING

AuDHD significantly impacts daily life, posing challenges with inattention,
emotional regulation, and sensory difficulties. Research indicates that
individuals with AuDHD may encounter more difficulties in social interactions,
which can cause challenges with the formation and maintenance of friendships or
long-term relationships. Difficulties in understanding social cues and following
norms can lead to masking behaviours that can impact relationships and the
individual’s overall well-being.

In terms of shared living spaces and household responsibilities, individuals may
face unique challenges due to their specific support needs, which may involve
more day-to-day support. Living with a family member or partner may present
challenges, but understanding and supporting the needs of individuals with AuDHD
is of great importance. The complexity of AuDHD underscores the importance of
creating neurodivergent-accepting spaces and understanding the interconnection
between autism and ADHD.


UNIQUE COMMUNITY SERVICES SUPPORT INDIVIDUALS WITH AUDHD

Unique Community Services provides proactive support services prioritising the
unique needs of individuals with AuDHD. Our approach is grounded in Positive
Behaviour Support (PBS), a person-centred approach that aims to recognise
individuals’ distinct needs and improve their quality of life.

Operating with a person-centred approach, Unique Community Services tailors its
support to meet each individual’s specific requirements and aspirations. By
considering each person’s unique traits and challenges, we aim to create a
supportive environment that fosters growth and well-being. The person-centred
approach ensures that individuals are active participants in their care,
contributing to developing personalised strategies and goals that align with
their strengths and preferences.

With offices in Manchester and Bristol, our Care Quality Commission (CQC)
regulated services are available across different regions.

Contact us today!

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Natasha

Natasha is a Content Writer and Communication Specialist. Her current focus of
interest is how data analytics, marketing, and communications, all combined, can
tremendously impact people’s lives. She is trying to implement that fascination
and thinking through her work. Natasha is a Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Positive Changes Ambassador, and also, she is certified in Human Rights
Education.



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