Chapter 1: The Unique Characteristics of AuDHD

Being an AuDHD individual—someone diagnosed with both autism and ADHD—often feels like navigating a paradox. While there is significant overlap between the two conditions, they can frequently contradict each other, leading to a profound sense of frustration. This frustration is compounded by the reality that managing both conditions can be incredibly challenging.

It's important to note that just because someone has been diagnosed with one of these conditions, it doesn't automatically mean they lack the other. A thorough exploration of the characteristics associated with both autism and ADHD is essential for a proper understanding. Current estimates suggest that 50–80% of individuals with ADHD also exhibit traits of autism. However, some argue the overlap could be as low as 30%. This discrepancy raises questions about the accuracy of existing statistics regarding AuDHD individuals.

The concept of being diagnosed with both autism and ADHD is still relatively new. Prior to the DSM V's release in 2013, it was believed that individuals couldn't have both conditions simultaneously. Despite this shift in understanding, research into the experiences of those with a dual diagnosis has lagged significantly over the past decade.

Late-diagnosed individuals may initially receive an ADHD diagnosis, leaving their autism unrecognized due to the ways in which the two conditions interact. Those with AuDHD often remain undiagnosed because the traits of autism and ADHD can neutralize each other. It’s crucial to acknowledge that the AuDHD profile has unique characteristics that differ from those who solely exhibit traits of either autism or ADHD.

To better understand these traits, I will share 17 indicators that I have personally observed in my own experience. If you find that you possess many of these traits, it may be beneficial to explore both conditions further.

1. You feel as if your mind is in conflict due to the tension between your autism and ADHD traits, which intensifies your experiences.
2. You are capable of both logical reasoning and innovative thinking.
3. You crave stability yet also seek out spontaneous new experiences.
4. Your ADHD traits may obscure your autistic traits or vice versa, creating a balancing act.
5. You may feel more isolated and overwhelmed by your autistic traits in public, while your ADHD traits may lead to restlessness at home.
6. Your attention can sharpen on details when something captivates you; otherwise, you may overlook them.
7. You might have a wider range of hyperfixations and interests compared to individuals with only autism, necessitating shifts between these interests to maintain engagement.
8. Daily functioning can be particularly challenging due to the compounded effects of both autism and ADHD, each contributing to different types of executive dysfunction.
9. You may find yourself more extroverted and socially engaged, spurred on by the novelty-seeking nature of ADHD.
10. Establishing and maintaining routines can be a struggle, even when you recognize their importance.
11. Emotional regulation may be more challenging due to impulsivity associated with ADHD, leading to hasty reactions to intense feelings.
12. You might generate numerous ideas and be capable of organizing them, but struggle with execution.
13. Your sensory experiences might be heightened, as autism draws attention to details while ADHD distracts you from them.
14. You may speak rapidly when sharing information but struggle to respond promptly when asked questions.
15. You might feel a sense of impending overload when someone is late (autism) but find it difficult to arrive on time yourself (ADHD).
16. You can be highly organized in planning (autism) yet feel overwhelmed by impulsive choices (ADHD).
17. You often connect well with others who share the AuDHD diagnosis.

Having both autism and ADHD alters the experience of each condition; however, it's essential to understand that this dual diagnosis does not imply a "milder" form of either. Instead, it can amplify the challenges associated with both conditions.

Due to the ongoing struggle to balance these two misunderstood conditions, individuals with AuDHD may face increased mental health challenges. Learning how to prioritize which aspect requires attention can be a draining process.

For additional resources, I recommend visiting embrace-autism.com, where insights on AuDHD traits can be found. Engaging with AuDHD individuals on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok can also be beneficial.

For further insights, consider watching content from autistic YouTubers such as Yo Samdy Sam. The following video provides valuable information on the topic:

Additionally, here's another informative video discussing signs of having both ADHD and autism:

I hope this overview aids in your understanding of AuDHD and encourages further exploration into the nuances of both autism and ADHD.