What is AuDHD? For many adults suffering with ADHD symptoms, there feels like something “more” is happening in their experience. Symptoms that cannot be explained by ADHD alone.
AuDHD could be the answer.
Autism and ADHD are shown to co-occur more often than not. But what does AuDHD mean, and how might it show up for you?
AuDHD is not an official term used to describe an individual who experiences both Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) together. Many individuals in the neurodivergent community use this term to describe their experience better.
For the sake of this blog post, keep in mind that AuDHD is a term used by the neurodivergent community to represent both these disorders. However, for the sake of clarity, ADHD is often used by late-diagnosed adults and is not a separate diagnosis; it’s a term used to describe these co-occurring conditions.
Many people with both autism and ADHD resonate more with the term AuDHD because it represents their full spectrum of symptoms.
Neurodivergent symptoms that both Autism and ADHD share include:
Where they differ:
ADHD = impulsivity, variability
Autism = predictability, sensory processing
The overlap between these two disorders can make diagnosis challenging. For example, ADHD traits tend to cause novelty-seeking, while autistics require a strict routine to feel grounded. From the outside, this creates an inconsistent pattern and can be confusing rather than simply resulting in an autistic diagnosis.
Adults with AuDHD learn to compensate early on in life. They may rely on structure to manage ADHD symptoms or use hyperfocus and push through environments that are actually overwhelming. Over time, this constant self-management can mask underlying traits, delaying recognition.
The overlap between autism and ADHD can be a difficult thing to navigate, which is why identifying common symptoms they exhibit is essential. Not all symptoms are present in every person, so be advised that your experience may differ.
Autism and ADHD are often assessed separately, making overlapping traits harder to identify. Masking and compensation can hide symptoms well into adulthood. We get good at hiding our childhood experiences and continue to do so as we age. Symptoms are frequently misattributed to anxiety, depression, or burnout.
With time, however, coping strategies begin to fail, and many adults start wondering if what they are experiencing is something more than depression.
Autism and ADHD are different from each other. For example, conflicting needs for simulation and predictability are familiar to people who have both. Strategies that help with ADHD symptoms may worsen autistic overwhelm, and vice versa.
As you continue to seek a diagnosis, you may get conflicting responses from healthcare professionals. This results in increased fatigue from managing competing cognitive and sensory demands.
It also increases the risk of burnout due to constant self-adjustment.
Working with a neurodivergent-affirming therapist to understand overlapping patterns is one of the best things you can do if you suspect you struggle with autism and ADHD. Support focused on self-understanding rather than fixing or correcting behaviour is another option to consider.
Learning strategies that respect both executive function and sensory needs. It’s important to address burnout, shame, and long-standing self-blame. Exploring accommodations and routines that align with individual capacity can also be helpful.
Accessing virtual therapy options that support adults across Canada are an excellent way to start creating strategies that make the most sense for your experience.
If you’d like to explore what it is like to work with me, please reach out to schedule a meet-and-greet where we discuss your challenges and a potential path forward.
This blog includes occasional personal anecdotes used to illustrate therapeutic ideas and foster connection. All identifying details have been altered or omitted to protect confidentiality. These reflections are intended as examples only; every individual’s experience is unique, and what resonates for one person may not apply to another.
The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a qualified healthcare provider or licensed mental health professional.
Psychotherapy services described on this site are available to residents of Ontario. If you are interested in support or would like to schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation, you are welcome to contact me through my practice.
These resources are offered to support your learning and self-understanding as you move toward a more grounded, authentic, and meaningful life.