Clinically reviewed
ADHD and Autism
Direct answer
Can ADHD and autism occur together?
Yes. ADHD and autism are separate neurodevelopmental conditions that commonly occur together, and both can be diagnosed in the same person. Some features overlap — such as difficulty with attention or social interaction — so a careful assessment looks at why each difficulty happens. An ADHD assessment can identify possible autistic traits, but autism needs its own specialist assessment.
- Separate conditions that often co-occur
- Both can be diagnosed together
- Overlapping features need careful assessment
- Autism requires its own assessment
- ADHD Path assesses ADHD, not autism
Where they overlap
Both can involve difficulties with attention, organisation, sensory sensitivity, emotional regulation and social relationships. The reason differs: for example, someone with ADHD may miss social cues through inattention, while an autistic person may process social communication differently.
Key differences
- Autism: differences in social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviours and interests, often a strong preference for routine
- ADHD: inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity, often seeking novelty
- Both are lifelong and begin in childhood
How this affects assessment
NICE NG87 asks clinicians to consider coexisting conditions including autism. If autistic traits are identified during an ADHD assessment, your report will say so and recommend a specialist autism assessment. ADHD Path does not currently provide autism assessments.
Book an ADHD Assessment
Structured clinical assessment and written outcome.
Frequently asked questions
What is AuDHD?
An informal term people use for having both autism and ADHD. It is not a separate diagnosis.
Can ADHD medication help if I am also autistic?
ADHD medication may help ADHD symptoms in autistic people, but response can differ, so titration is carefully monitored.
Should I have an autism or ADHD assessment first?
It depends on your main difficulties. Your GP or clinician can advise; both may be needed.
Related questions
Related ADHD Path services
Clinical authorship & review
Written by
Mark Thornton-JonesMPharm (Liverpool John Moores, 2010), Non-Medical Prescribing (Distinction), CPPE General Practice Pathway, ADHD diagnosis & management (2025) · Specialist ADHD Pharmacist & Independent Prescriber
GPhC 2076283
Clinically reviewed by
Shamir PatelMPharm, Independent Prescriber · CQC Registered Manager & Clinical Pharmacist
GPhC 2049338- Published
- 11 October 2026
- Last reviewed
- 11 October 2026
- Next review
- 11 October 2027
References
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: diagnosis and management (NG87). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 2018, updated 2019. Source
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). American Psychiatric Association, 2022. Source
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) — Diagnosis. NHS. Source