Why Read This?

If handwriting is tricky, reading feels exhausting, or paying attention seems impossible, you might be wondering if ADHD, dyslexia, or even both could be at play. You're not alone—around 25–40% of people with ADHD or dyslexia have overlapping symptoms.

This friendly guide will gently unpack:

• Clear definitions in everyday language
• Insight from experts at Augmentive
• Easy ways to spot signs at any age
• Simple steps for getting support in the UK
• Helpful strategies to boost day-to-day life

Quick, Simple Definitions

Attention‑Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD can feel like a busy mind that's always jumping from one thing to another, making it hard to focus, stay organised, or sit still. It affects about 3–5 % of UK children, and for many, these challenges persist into adulthood.

Dyslexia

Dyslexia primarily affects reading and spelling, often causing frustration with written tasks. About 1 in 10 people experience dyslexia, making it one of the most common learning differences.

Dr Simmi Sachdeva‑Mohan, Consultant Psychiatrist
“ADHD and dyslexia can look similar day‑to‑day: anxiety, procrastination and social hiccups crop up in both. Spotting what’s really going on – and getting tailored support – lifts confidence fast.”

Why Do ADHD and Dyslexia Overlap?

Imagine ADHD and dyslexia as close relatives sharing a family tree:

• Genetics – They often run together in families, indicating shared genetic pathways.
• Executive Function – ADHD-related difficulties like working memory and organisational skills directly impact reading and writing.
• Brain Connections – Research has shown that similar brain areas linked to language and attention are involved in both conditions.
• Mutual Influence – Struggling with reading can amplify attention issues, while hyperactivity can make reading more challenging.

Dr Sandhya Eappen
“Like two radio stations sharing frequencies – clear reception takes careful tuning.”

Is It ADHD, Dyslexia, or Both?

Dyslexia “tells”

• Frequent spelling mistakes, often inconsistent
• Difficulty recognising and remembering words
• Avoidance of reading-related activities

ADHD “tells”

• Making errors because thoughts race ahead of the pen
• Constantly feeling restless or distracted
• Difficulty completing tasks without regular reminders

Double‑diagnosis clues

When someone experiences both ADHD and dyslexia, daily tasks like reading, writing, and organising can feel especially overwhelming. Recognising the distinct and shared features can help ensure targeted support is provided.

Age-Specific Signs to Look Out For

Early Years

• Difficulty recognising letters and sounds
• Easily losing track during stories or lessons
• Mixing up similar-looking letters (b/d, p/q)

Teens and Students

• Taking much longer than peers to read or revise
• Struggling to finish assignments, despite spending significant time
• Strong verbal communication but difficulty expressing ideas in writing

Adults

• Preference for audiobooks over reading texts
• Anxiety around paperwork or forms
• Frequent difficulty organising daily tasks and responsibilities

Getting Diagnosed in the UK

ADHD Pathway

1. Talk to your GP.
2. Referral to a specialist – NHS or private.
3. Full assessment (interview + rating scales) guided by the NICE NG87 ADHD guideline.
4. Expect long NHS waits – a recent report showed waits over four years for some children.

Dr Eappen: “Booking a combined ADHD–dyslexia assessment saves months and joins up interventions from day one.”

Dyslexia Pathway

1. Flag concerns with school SENCo or workplace HR.
2. Formal assessment by a specialist teacher or educational psychologist (typically £450–£800).
3. Receive a report with targeted recommendations.

Support That Actually Helps

ADHD

• Medication: Can significantly improve attention and reduce impulsivity.
• Behavioural Strategies: Practical tips like visual schedules, breaking tasks into smaller chunks, and external reminders.

Dyslexia

• Structured Literacy Approaches: Methods such as Orton‑Gillingham provide targeted, structured reading and spelling support.
• Educational Adjustments: Accommodations like extra time on tests, printed notes, or coloured overlays.

When Both Apply

• Assistive Technologies: Tools like speech-to-text software, dyslexia-friendly fonts, and organisational apps.
• Integrated Care plans: Regular check-ins with medical, educational, and therapeutic professionals ensure coordinated care.

Augmentive offers rapid neurodiversity assessments, bespoke literacy coaching and holistic plans that plug NHS gaps – turning awareness into action.

Real-Life Stories: Finding Clarity and Confidence

“One of my uni patients had dyslexia from childhood. The effort to keep top grades was exhausting. Once ADHD was diagnosed, we layered medication with structured literacy coaching – deadlines stopped being firefights.” – Dr Eappen

FAQ Quick‑Fire

• Can you have ADHD without dyslexia? Yes, many people experience only one, although having both is common.
• Does ADHD medication improve reading skills? It helps focus and attention but should be combined with structured literacy support.
• Is dyslexia considered a disability in the UK? Yes, protected by the Equality Act 2010.
• What accommodations can schools provide? Schools can offer extra support, specialist teaching, and assistive technology.
• Are online assessments reliable? Yes, if conducted by qualified professionals registered with the GMC, HCPC, or BPS.

Extra Help & Resources

• NHS – ADHD overview
• NHS – Dyslexia support
• British Dyslexia Association
• ADHD UK
• Augmentive – ADHD assessment

Final Thought

Knowing your mind is powerful. Acting on that insight is transformative. Augmentive helps you move from questions to clear next steps – so your limitless mind can make things happen.