5 signs you have ADHD and autism

Summary

In this insightful video, Sam discusses the significant overlap between autism and ADHD, highlighting that many individuals may exhibit traits of both conditions. They share personal experiences and identify five key signs that suggest one might have both: inner conflict between contradictory traits, balancing traits that mask struggles, a diverse range of special interests, varying self-expressions in different environments, and a strong connection with others who share similar diagnoses. Sam encourages viewers to reflect on their experiences and engage in a conversation about neurodiversity, emphasizing the importance of understanding oneself on this journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 A significant overlap exists between autism and ADHD, with studies showing that 30-80% of autistic individuals also have ADHD.
• 😀 The DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) does not address the overlap between autism and ADHD, leading to a lack of understanding in professional literature.
• 😀 Individuals with both autism and ADHD may experience conflicting traits, leading to frustration and confusion about their own behaviors.
• 😀 Autistic traits and ADHD traits can sometimes balance each other out, making it difficult to recognize struggles until adulthood.
• 😀 People with both conditions may have a broader range of special interests and hyperfixations, often shifting focus quickly while maintaining ongoing interests.
• 😀 Different environments can bring out different aspects of one’s personality; autistic traits may become more pronounced in unpredictable settings, while ADHD traits dominate in controlled environments.
• 😀 Relating to others who share both diagnoses can provide a sense of community and understanding, despite individual differences.
• 😀 Many individuals may feel imposter syndrome after their diagnosis, especially when comparing themselves to others in the neurodivergent community.
• 😀 The experience of having both conditions often results in a unique combination of needs and desires that can appear contradictory.
• 😀 Neurodivergent individuals often seek connections with others who have similar experiences, reinforcing the importance of community support.

Q & A

What percentage of autistic individuals also have ADHD?

Studies show that anywhere between 30 and 80 percent of autistic people also have ADHD.

Why might there be a disparity between autism and ADHD diagnoses?

The disparity may indicate that ADHD is slightly more prevalent or more frequently diagnosed at a population level.

What is the DSM, and how does it treat autism and ADHD?

The DSM is the diagnostic manual used by psychologists. It does not address the overlap between autism and ADHD, and the criteria for diagnosing these conditions do not intersect.

What is one common sign of having both autism and ADHD?

One sign is experiencing a constant inner conflict between contradictory traits, leading to frustration.

How might autistic and ADHD traits interact with each other?

These traits can balance each other out; for example, social awkwardness from autism might be mitigated by sociability from ADHD.

What is a special interest, and how does it manifest differently for individuals with both conditions?

A special interest is a topic that captures someone's attention intensely. Individuals with both conditions may have a larger variety of intense special interests, often fluctuating between short-lived obsessions and stable long-term interests.

In what ways do traits differ based on environment?

Traits may become more pronounced in different settings; for example, autistic traits might emerge in unpredictable social situations, while ADHD traits could be more noticeable in familiar environments.

What did Sam experience regarding their self-perception after their autism diagnosis?

Sam felt imposter syndrome when meeting other autistic individuals, questioning whether they truly fit in due to differences in behavior.

What does it mean to relate to others with both diagnoses?

Relating to others who have both autism and ADHD fosters a sense of connection and understanding, despite the potential differences in individual experiences.

What is the overall message of the video regarding the dual diagnosis of autism and ADHD?

The video aims to provide insight into the overlapping traits of autism and ADHD, encouraging viewers to explore their experiences and seek professional guidance if needed.