Can a child have both ADHD and a learning disorder? 

ADHD and learning disorder are often discussed separately, but did you know that a child can have both? This comorbidity can make daily life more challenging, as a child faces both attention difficulties and specific academic struggles. Understanding the link between ADHD and learning disorder is crucial for providing the right support and ensuring the child’s success at school. 

ADHD and Learning Disorder: The Dual Diagnosis Challenge 

Children with ADHD often find it hard to focus, stay organised, and control their impulses. Their ability to sit still or follow instructions can be inconsistent, leading to frustration and difficulties in various areas of life, especially school. These behaviours stem from a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention and behaviour, but it doesn’t directly impact academic skills. 

On the other hand, a learning disorder like dyslexia (reading difficulties) or dyscalculia (math difficulties) is a specific cognitive issue that makes it challenging for children to process certain types of information. Even highly intelligent children can struggle with one or more academic areas because of these disorders, despite their ability to excel in other areas. 

How ADHD and Learning Disorders Overlap 

When a child has both ADHD and a learning disorder, they may struggle even more. For example, a child with ADHD might find it hard to focus long enough to overcome challenges posed by a reading disorder. The result is often compounded struggles that impact school performance and can lower self-esteem. This dual diagnosis requires careful evaluation to ensure the child gets the right type of support. 

In conclusion, ADHD and learning disorder can indeed occur together, making it essential to recognise both conditions. Early identification is key to providing effective intervention, helping children manage attention and academic challenges.  

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Differential Diagnosis of ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

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.