Guide
ADHD and autism: the overlap explained
ADHD and autism are distinct conditions that can occur together in the same person and share some overlapping experiences. Having one does not rule out the other, and both can be present. The NHS describes ADHD as commonly co-occurring with conditions including autism. This is information, not medical advice, and only a qualified clinician can diagnose either.
Information only, not medical advice and not a diagnosis. Nothing here is a self-test. Only a qualified clinician can diagnose ADHD or autism.
How they relate
ADHD and autism are separate conditions, each with its own core features, but they frequently appear together. The NHS and the Royal College of Psychiatrists describe ADHD as commonly co-occurring with other conditions, autism among them. That is why a careful assessment looks at the whole picture rather than assuming a single explanation.
Where they differ
In broad terms:
- Autism is characterised by differences in social communication and by patterns of behaviour, routines or focused interests.
- ADHD is characterised by features around attention, activity levels and impulsivity.
- Some experiences, such as difficulty with attention or with managing change, can feature in both.
These are general descriptions, not diagnostic criteria. A clinician assesses each condition on its own terms.
Getting assessed when both may apply
If you think both ADHD and autism may apply to you, it is worth saying so when you seek help, because routes and services vary by area. You can ask your GP, use NHS Right to Choose in England, or go privately. Our guide to getting an ADHD assessment covers the routes, and our is it ADHD or anxiety guide looks at another common overlap.
Frequently asked questions
Can you have both ADHD and autism?
Yes. ADHD and autism can occur together in the same person. The NHS and the Royal College of Psychiatrists describe ADHD as commonly co-occurring with other conditions, including autism. Whether either or both are present is a clinical judgement made through assessment.
How are ADHD and autism different?
They are distinct conditions with different core features, although some experiences can overlap. Autism centres on areas such as social communication and patterns of behaviour and interests, while ADHD centres on attention, activity and impulsivity. A clinician assesses each on its own terms. This is general information, not a diagnosis.
Are they assessed at the same time?
Sometimes, but not always. Some services assess for ADHD and autism separately, others together, and routes differ by area. If you think both may apply, you can raise that when seeking an assessment so the right pathway is considered. Only a qualified clinician can diagnose either.
Why does the overlap matter?
Recognising that both can be present helps make sure neither is missed, which is why clinicians consider the whole picture rather than stopping at one label. This page is information to help you have that conversation, not a substitute for an assessment.
Editor, ADHD Helper
Oliver leads ADHD Helper's editorial coverage of adult ADHD. He researches and writes the plain-English explainers on getting an ADHD assessment through NHS Right to Choose or privately, and on the products and tools people use to manage ADHD, drawing on guidance from the NHS, NICE and the Royal College of Psychiatrists. He is clear that the site is information, not medical advice, and that diagnosis is for a registered clinician.
Last reviewed: 8 June 2026