Is ADHD on the autism spectrum?

Short answer: no, ADHD isn’t on the autism spectrum.
Longer answer: ADHD and autism are separate neurodevelopmental conditions with their own diagnostic criteria. They can co‑occur in the same person (often called AuDHD), and they share some traits, which is why it’s easy to mix them up.

This guide is for information only. It’s not a diagnostic tool.

Why people think ADHD is “on the spectrum”

Because overlap is real. You might see:

• Executive‑function struggles (planning, organising, starting/finishing tasks).
• Sensory differences (noise, lights, textures).
• Social energy drain and masking to “get through” the day.
• Restlessness, distractibility, time blindness and the knock‑on effects at work and home.

"Both ADHD and Autism sit under the broader umbrella of neurodevelopmental spectrum conditions. However, they have their own unique spectrum separate from one another as they can both appear to varying symptomatic degrees." - Dr Alan Cross, Consultant Psychiatrist

Where ADHD and autism actually differ

• Core features
  • Autism: lifelong differences in social communication and interaction, plus restricted/repetitive behaviours and sensory differences.
  • ADHD: attention regulation differences with hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention that fluctuate with interest and context.
• Motivation vs. capacity
  • Many people with ADHD can do a task when interest or urgency spikes; people on the autism spectrum may be able to do it, but change, ambiguity or sensory load are the blockers.
• Social patterns
  • ADHD may show as impulsivity in conversation; autism often shows as different social processing (e.g., interpreting cues, preferring structured interactions).
• Repetitive behaviour
  • Autism: repetitive behaviours and intense interests are diagnostic.
  • ADHD: hyperfocus can look similar but is not a diagnostic feature of autism.

"People with ADHD may think they have autism if they are a bit obsessive, or feel emotionally overwhelmed easily. But this is part of ADHD also and so a detailed clinical assessment should always take place to be sure." - Dr Alan Cross, Consultant Psychiatrist

Can you have both (AuDHD)?

Yes. Since 2013, clinicians can diagnose both conditions in one person. Co‑occurrence is common—which is why a precise assessment matters. The takeaway: ADHD ≠ autism, but ADHD + autism is a recognised presentation.

UK‑specific: getting assessed and getting help

• Start with your GP if traits are affecting work, study or relationships. Ask about referrals to ADHD and/or autism services.
• Separate pathways: in England, services typically assess ADHD and autism on distinct pathways, it’s normal to be referred to more than one service if both are suspected.
• Right to Choose (England): you can often choose any clinic that provides NHS ADHD services and holds an NHS contract.
• Workplace or study support: ask about reasonable adjustments (clear written instructions, quiet workspace, flexible deadlines, assistive tech). Document what helps.

Self‑check before you book

Use this to sharpen your referral letter or consultation:

• Patterns, not one‑offs: note examples across settings (home, work, social).
• Early life: when did traits first show up?
• Environment fit: what makes things worse or better (noise, change, multi‑tasking)?
• Impact: be concrete about missed deadlines, relationship friction, shutdowns, burnout.

Myths to drop (today)

• “ADHD is part of the autism spectrum.” → False. Different conditions, different criteria.
• “If you can focus sometimes, it can’t be ADHD.” → Focus is context‑dependent in ADHD.
• “Masking means I’m coping.” → Masking often delays support and drives burnout.

What to do next (action plan)

1. Write your two‑minute story: “Here’s what I’m struggling with, where it shows up, and how long it’s been happening.”
2. Book the first step: GP appointment (NHS) or a specialist consultation (private).
3. Ask for adjustments now: you don’t need a diagnosis to request practical changes at work or university.
4. Build your support team: clinical care, therapy or coaching, peer community.
5. Review monthly: what’s working, what’s not, what to tweak.

The Augmentive difference

Understanding opens the door. Action takes you through it. At Augmentive we turn a diagnosis into an action plan, fast assessments, clear next steps and support that fits how your mind works (therapy, coaching, medication options and community). Our voice is punchy, literal and empathetic because we know you don’t need fluff, you need momentum. Put your mind in action.