ADHD AND ASD—HOW TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE
To even the most highly trained observer, someone diagnosed with autism (known as autism spectrum disorder, or ASD) can behave in ways that appear similar to someone with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). And if it’s not an easy call for a behavioral specialist, it’s even harder for a non-professional to tell the difference.
While similarities abound, there are meaningful differences. And it’s important to make the distinction accurately. Because, as with most other disorders (physical and cognitive), treatment strategies for ASD and ADHD differ. Complicating matters a little further, ASD and ADHD can occur together.
ADHD and ASD are both classified as neurodevelopmental conditions. Expect to see some overlap in behavior from people with either diagnosis, or both. Some behaviors are common between them:
being fidgety or constantly on the move
sensitivity about someone invading their personal space
struggling to read and respond appropriately to social cues, especially non-verbal ones
experiencing meltdowns or tantrums when frustrated
Despite these similarities, the two conditions present differences in terms of observable signs, social considerations and treatment options.
People with ADHD may:
be distracted, disorganized or impatient
forget important information or act as if they’re not listening
behave impulsively, roughly or in ways that suggest they don't fully understand consequences of their actions
People with ASD are likely to:
avoid visual or physical contact with others
be slow to develop speech (if at all), while others may use language skillfully
take comfort in routine
react negatively to disruptions, and may self-soothe with rocking and other unusual body movement
have trouble with empathy, expressing and understanding feelings, and recognizing dangers
have unusually strong reactions to specific sensory stimuli
People with both conditions often face social consequences from others outside the home, based on their behaviors.
People with ADHD may:
have trouble forming and retaining friendships because it’s hard for them to understand and follow social behavioral norms
get into trouble with teachers and other authority figures, who might misinterpret the reasons for problem behavior. This, in turn, can leave the individual with a negative self-image and prevent them from performing academically.
People on the autism spectrum often:
have trouble understanding the dynamics of social relationships and may find them intimidating. This occurs partly because of communication challenges, especially those that involve nonverbal cues like facial expressions and tone of voice.
face teasing from peers when feeling frustrated or overwhelmed because of their self-soothing behaviors like rocking and arm-flapping
Treatment options
Professionals in the medical and mental health communities have a variety of strategies for treating people with both conditions and helping them moderate some of the challenges they face.
There are various medications available to help people with ADHD focus their attention more effectively, which often makes the condition more manageable and helps people function more comfortably in society. Cognitive behavioral therapy can also help overcome anxiety and the perception of learning differences.
Because ASD represents a wide range of signs, symptoms and diagnoses, treatment modalities can vary depending on the person’s individual challenges. Options might include early intervention services, training in social and other “soft” skills, sensory integration therapy, and speech and language therapy. If there’s a co-occurring diagnosis like anxiety, medications can also help.
How families can help
Families play a large role in making life easier for people diagnosed with ADHD, ASD or both. The first rule of thumb, regardless of diagnosis, is: always coordinate with the person’s professional care team (i.e., doctors, therapists, and teachers).
ADHD
Make sure the person knows the behavioral expectations and rules in your household.
Provide structure by developing and repeating daily routines.
Divide instructions into small, manageable tasks.
Promote visual aids to help the person stay organized, Checklists are great for this.
Build mental health breaks into periods of concentration.
Set aside a separate work area for homework.
Provide a heads-up before scheduling one-off activities that disrupt the person’s established routine.
ASD
Be clear with the behaviors you expect from the person.
Provide structure by developing and repeating daily routines.
Split up complex tasks (like doing the dishes) into small components that can be more easily achieved.
Plan on occasional tantrums and frustration, so you can deal with them more calmly.
Help the person manage social interactions by practicing scripts that are easy to remember.
For more on the differences and similarities between ADHD and ASD, contact us at 904-346-5100. We offer evaluations and therapies to steer families toward proven programs for making the most of a child’s potential. Not sure how to get help for someone with special needs? Our Center for Educational Advocacy can help you maximize the resources available.