Author: Beatrice Holloway, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Yes, an ADHD can delay autism diagnosis, particularly when shared traits overshadow key indicators of autism. Both conditions can involve restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty with focus, which often leads to one diagnosis being made while the other is missed. In many cases, early signs are overlooked because they’re attributed solely to ADHD rather than seen as part of a broader neurodevelopmental profile.
This diagnostic confusion creates a real risk of late diagnosis for autistic individuals, especially those who mask or who don’t fit the stereotypical profile. Diagnostic masking can be reinforced by successful ADHD treatment, making autism symptoms less visible and less likely to be explored further. The result? A gap in support, self-understanding, and access to the tools that truly fit the person’s needs.
Signs Often Overlooked in ADHD Diagnoses
When autism traits are mistaken for ADHD symptoms, the full picture can go unnoticed. Here are a few common examples:
Hyperfocus Misread as Inattention
Autistic adults and children may concentrate deeply on specific topics but struggle to shift focus, yet this is often framed as distractibility.
Sensory Overload Dismissed as Behavioural Issues
Intense reactions to noise, light, or touch may be seen as emotional outbursts rather than signs of sensory sensitivity.
Strict Routines Mistaken for Control Issues
Difficulty with change is sometimes viewed as oppositional behaviour, not a core part of autism.
Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations.
For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape,read our complete guide to misdiagnosis and differential diagnosis.
Beatrice Holloway, MSc
Author
Beatrice Holloway is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She specialises in CBT, psychological testing, and applied behaviour therapy, working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, and learning disabilities, as well as adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, and substance use disorders. Holloway creates personalised treatment plans to support emotional regulation, social skills, and academic progress in children, and delivers evidence-based therapy to improve mental health and well-being across all ages.
All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.
All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.
