ADHD vs autism spectrum disorder: they are two different conditions, but they can occur together. The Australian ADHD Guideline states that among people with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder co-occurs in 20–50% of cases (AADPA guideline).
This guide compares the two, explains what happens when a person has both and points to Australian sources. For background on how ADHD relates to other conditions, see ADHD and co-occurring conditions.
ADHD figures are from the Australian ADHD Guideline’s GP factsheet.
ADHD is a condition that affects attention, activity and impulse control, and healthdirect says around 1 in 20 people in Australia have it (healthdirect).
Autism is a separate condition from ADHD. Our guide to what autism is covers the full picture.
The two can occur together, so these points are general comparisons, not rules. A qualified clinician is needed to tell them apart.
TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.
Make a referral →People with both are sometimes called AuDHD. The guideline found children and adolescents with autism have a significantly higher risk of ADHD (AADPA guideline).
Our guide to the ADHD and autism assessment explains how assessments work.
Some people with ADHD, autistic people and people with both describe periods of burnout or meltdowns. Experiences vary, so talk to your GP or clinician about what is happening and what support might help.
If you or someone close to you is in distress, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or call 000 if someone is in immediate danger.
Your clinician can talk through other possibilities during an assessment. These guides explain related conditions.
healthdirect nurses are available on 1800 022 222 around the clock, and the ADHD Foundation can be reached on 1300 39 39 19.
TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.
Make a referral →If ADHD, autism or both affect daily life and you meet the NDIS access requirements, practical support can be part of your plan. TQN Care’s NDIS services include personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). We provide day-to-day support, not treatment, and we are happy to talk through what would help.
No. They are separate conditions with their own diagnostic criteria. They can occur together, and the Australian ADHD Guideline states that among people with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder co-occurs in 20–50% of cases. Ask your clinician about assessment for both.
Yes. The combination is sometimes called AuDHD. A GP can refer you to a clinician who can assess for both.
ADHD affects attention, activity and impulse control, while autism involves differences in social communication and interaction. They can occur together, so a qualified clinician is needed to tell them apart.
Ask your paediatrician or other clinicians for strategies suited to your child. Look after yourself too, and call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for nurse advice at any hour.