Autism Assessment or ADHD Assessment or Combined? How to choose the right assessment

Finding out which assessment to have can be a challenge in itself ADHD or ASD?  - we address this question to help you understand the difference between these two developmental conditions.

Autism and ADHD what are these conditions?

Autism or to give this condition its full name Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition which is characterised by difficulties with social interaction and communication, and repetitive or restricted patterns of behaviour or interests.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is also a developmental condition, this condition is characterised by difficulties with hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.   Furthermore, there are currently three recognised subtypes of ADHD which are:-

1.     Predominantly Inattentive

2.     Predominately Hyperactive/Impulsive

3.     Combined

What is the cause of Autism (ASD) and ADHD?

The causes are complex of Autism and likewise ADHD however research has shown that the brains or individuals with and without these conditions have significant differences.  There has also been found to have genetic links with these conditions occurring in families although it is possible to have either condition when no one else in your family has them.

Although Autism and ADHD are distinct developmental conditions they can overlap and have some shared symptoms.  An individual can have neither, one or both conditions.

What are some of the characteristics that may lead you to think about having an Autism Assessment?

Depending upon your age, gender and intellectual ability the differences associated with autism vary and it is also important to remember that every autistic person has their own strengths and weaknesses.  Below are examples of common differences that may be shared by autistic people:

Anxiety, meltdowns and shutdowns

It can be overwhelming for an autistic person when trying to meet the expectations of a neurotypical society making them feel confused and scared.

ADHD Assessment things to consider

Attention difficulties – children can find at school and at home it very difficult to concentrate.  When observing them they may jump from one activity to another activity, avoid reading, doing their homework or sitting through a movie.

Struggle to listen to instructions – a child with ADHD will need frequent reminders, prompts and redirection.  Things that others ignore or block out a person with ADHD will be easily distracted by.  An order that will seem illogical to others will be undertaken by a person with ADHD and they can often be forgetful.

Difficulty with hyperactivity and impulsivity  – children will frequently move and fidget being unable to sit still.  Often younger children will climb excessively, run about, be very noisy and in public situations are very difficult to manage – for example they are not able to manage queues not waiting their turn.  Another example is that children with ADHD in the classroom often receive reprimands for shouting out or talking too much in class.  They may also interrupt others often or they may struggle to ‘put the brakes on’ putting themselves at risk.

Adults with ADHD – their difficulties might appear different to their childhood experiences of ADHD in adulthood for example they may struggle with ‘life admin’ such as missing paying bills or losing important belongings.  Chaotic and disorganised are terms associated with their behaviour which can mean they experience difficulties in their relationships and within the workplace.

Hyperactivity and impulsivity – this in adults can be less noticeable than in children.  The feeling of constant internal restlessness is experienced with the adult with ADHD struggling to switch off.  The feeling of having to constantly be doing something which others might deem too much is experienced.  Taking part in risky things without thinking of the consequences is another experience of adults with ADHD as well as struggling to inhibit video gaming or gambling as they often change their interests.

If both the Autistic and ADHD characteristics are felt present can you have both ASD and ADHD? 

During our lives at different times we can all experience difficulties that appear similar to ASD or ADHD however if the difficulties are long term and significant there can be the diagnosis.

During young childhood it is very normal for active five-year olds not to concentrate and not want to sit still.  Likewise, toddlers will display repetitive behaviour such as wanting to sing the same song again and again or the same games played over and over.  If throughout development these things persist and become noticeably different to their same age peers then this can lead to diagnosis.

In adulthood sometimes, we can say the wrong thing, be forgetful or get things wrong.  However, those with ASD or ADHD report this happens frequently making them feel misunderstood and different and thereby not fitting into the neurotypical world.  Difficulties with relationships, poor mental health and poor occupational success can be a result of this.

Autism and ADHD can commonly co-occur although when they occur together than can look slightly different as ADHD can affect the presentation of ASD and ASD can affect the presentation of ADHD.

Autism and ADHD Assessments

For a comprehensive assessment with an experienced Clinical Psychologist