Are Sensory Processing Differences Linked to Co-occurring ADHD in Autism?

PostedDecember 18, 2025

UpdatedDecember 18, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Sensory differences, ADHD, and autism are often interconnected. Many individuals with autism experience sensory differences heightened or diminished responses to sensory stimuli like sound, touch, or light. These challenges can be further complicated when ADHD co-occurs, as attention issues and difficulties with impulse control can make sensory processing even more overwhelming.

Comorbidity between autism and ADHD is common, with research showing that a significant portion of individuals diagnosed with autism also meet the criteria for ADHD. When both conditions are present, sensory processing difficulties can be amplified, as the individual struggles to filter out distractions while also dealing with sensory sensitivities.

How Sensory Differences and ADHD in Autism Interact

Here’s how the link between sensory differences, ADHD, and autism may manifest:

Increased distractibility and sensory overload

ADHD symptoms such as difficulty focusing and impulsivity can be exacerbated by sensory overload. Solution: Creating sensory-friendly environments and offering structured breaks can help mitigate distractions and sensory challenges.

Impulsivity and sensory seeking behaviours

Individuals with both ADHD and autism may engage in repetitive or intense sensory-seeking behaviours, such as excessive movement or seeking out strong sensory input. Solution: Providing structured activities and sensory regulation techniques can help manage impulsivity and sensory seeking behaviours.

Difficulty with emotional regulation

Both ADHD and sensory differences in autism can contribute to emotional dysregulation, particularly in overwhelming environments. Solution: Therapeutic approaches, including CBT or occupational therapy, can help improve emotional regulation and develop coping mechanisms.

Let me know if you’d like me to further refine the solutions section or adjust any other part of the blog!

Visit providers like Autism Detect for advice on managing sensory differences and ADHD in autism, as well as comorbidity and attention issues.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sensory Processing Differences.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and 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 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.