We may have heard of Autism and ADHD in the past, especially in conversations when people talk about others suffering from any of these disorders. However, some confuse the two, and oftentimes, some even think of them as similar, even if they are quite different. Due to certain similarities in the symptoms and presentation of both Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it is important to know how to differentiate the two, so that proper help can be sought when early signs arise.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects an individual’s social, emotional, and language skills, as well as their ability to learn. On the other hand, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common mental illness characterized by high levels of hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. Both of these mental disorders exhibit the same conditions such as inattention, difficulty in communicating, social awkwardness, and the challenge of keeping still. However, there are critical distinctions between the two.
ASD vs. ADHD
It is hard to tell the difference between Autism and ADHD, especially in children. Here are some descriptions that could be useful in distinguishing between the two illnesses’ symptoms:
An autistic child may have a restricted scope of interest, but they have a high level of focus on things that they find interesting. A child with ADHD, however, gets easily distracted and loses attention on things that need focus. They are hyperactive and like taking risks.
ASD individuals show social incapability like expressing thoughts and emotions and often have trouble mingling/talking to people around them, while people with ADHD talk unceasingly, interrupt others who are talking, and say things without thinking.
Children with autism prefer sticking to routines or repetitive patterns of verbal or nonverbal demeanors. For example, they may enjoy watching the same movie again and again, a little or simple change to this practice will induce irritability. In contrast, an ADHD child detests monotony. They want variety and new things to do every day.
In some cases, a person can have both ASD and ADHD. Studies show that 20-50% of children diagnosed with ADHD also fit the diagnostic profile for Autism. On the other hand, 30–80% of kids on the spectrum of ASD also fit the description for ADHD. Here are some overlapping symptoms of the two conditions:
· Problems in social interactions such as difficulties in learning social cues
· Repetitive moments like nail-biting, head-shaking, and other stimming behaviors
· Sensory issues like sensitivity to light and noises
· Challenges with interpersonal relationships
· OCD tendencies
· Anxiety/Depression
Treatment and Support
While the causes and diagnosis of ASD and ADHD are at times the same, each condition requires different treatment.
Autism treatments are based on the patient’s needs and symptoms; there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for this spectrum disorder, but therapies like behavioral and communication therapy, educational interventions, and sensory integration can help.
On the other hand, for those suffering from ADHD, medications can be used to fight its symptoms, along with skills training and psychological counseling.
Supporting a family member with ASD or ADHD (or in some cases with both mental conditions) can feel overwhelming, tiring, and frustrating. Taking some positive steps and assimilating them into your daily living will certainly make a difference to yourself and the individual with ASD or ADHD. Try to communicate and listen to them with compassion, give them positive validations, recognize their strengths, and show appreciation for their unique skills or talents, and most importantly, show them love and understanding.
Most importantly, don’t neglect to seek help from licensed medical specialists, as they are the best persons to impart guidance and strategies to help you deal with these challenging behaviors. Both ASD and ADHD are serious medical disorders that will need proper treatment and therapy, and we at Arbor Wellness are here to support you.