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Can ADHD look like autism, and should I bring that up? 

PostedOctober 16, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, it absolutely can. There are many areas where ADHD vs autism can appear similar, especially in how people relate to others, manage focus, or handle sensory input. These overlapping symptoms are common and it is completely appropriate to mention them in your assessment. In fact, raising this can help make your diagnosis more accurate. 

While ADHD vs autism are distinct conditions, they often co-occur and can be mistaken for one another. Struggles with attention, emotional regulation, social interaction, and routine can show up in both. This is why many professionals carry out a differential diagnosis ADHD autism to figure out what fits best, or if both may be present. 

You do not need to have the language exactly right. Sharing your experiences openly and mentioning if you think it might relate to autism as well as ADHD gives your clinician more information to work with. 

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How It Helps 

Increases diagnostic accuracy 

Highlighting ADHD vs autism concerns helps ensure the assessment explores all angles and avoids missing key signs. 

Clarifies overlapping symptoms 

Many behaviours linked to overlapping symptoms can look the same on the surface, but feel different in experience. Discussing them helps tease that out. 

Supports the right care plan 

A thorough differential diagnosis ADHD autism means better tailored support, whether it’s therapy, medication, or understanding your needs more clearly. 

It is always worth mentioning if you suspect autism traits alongside ADHD. The clearer the picture, the better the help. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed. 

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Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
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.