What is AuDHD?

AuDHD is a non-clinical term used to describe someone who has both autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is not an official diagnosis, but it has become so common that many psychologists and researchers take it seriously. A meta-analysis of more than 50 studies found that among people with autism, 39% also had ADHD (Ying, 2021).

While the causes for AuDHD is unknown, it is known that both autism and ADHD are both neurodevelopmental conditions. That means both would start to show in early childhood or teen years even if you didn’t start putting the pieces together until your 30s or beyond.

The biggest factor is genetics. Both conditions run in families. If a loved one gets diagnosed with autism or ADHD, it’s not uncommon to look at the list of traits and think, “Oh… that’s me.” Many adults get curious about their own neurodivergence when they see the traits in others.

Other factors are differences in brain structure, development, or chemistry; exposure to environmental toxins before or shortly after birth, maternal health during pregnancy, being born premature, or not getting enough oxygen to the brain as a baby. While there is no clear-cut answer, experts agree that AuDHD is a neurodevelopmental difference; that means it’s something you’re born with, not something that’s your fault.

Early autism and ADHD tests were basically designed with this in mind; that being they were designed for children – particularly boys – who stood out, not neurodivergent people who learned to blend in. These tools didn’t account for masking, which girls are often taught to do more than boys. As a result, many people – especially women, people of color, and gender-diverse people – got overlooked as kids and now must get a late diagnosis as an adult. 

Another reason for late diagnoses is that the symptoms might not feel disruptive until life gets more demanding. Big life changes like parenting, full-time employment, independent living, and hormonal shifts can all push coping strategies past their limits.

A late diagnosis doesn’t mean signs weren’t there. Small things such as wearing earplugs at work, shopping during off-hours, and sticking to structured routines are all signs of AuDHD. You might even take on a leadership role, so you have a kind of social script to follow. These self-accommodations aren’t always red flags, but when they fall away, if regulating emotions, focus, and/or sensory input suddenly feels like a full-time job, it might be a sign of autism, ADHD, or both.

Without the right support for these things, you may also have symptoms of anxiety, depression, or burnout.

Questions to ask yourself instead of focusing on a handful of symptoms:

• Is something about how I’m living my life causing distress or dysfunction?

• Would support – a diagnosis, therapy, medication – help make things easier?

If the answer to either of these things is ‘yes’, it’s worth talking to someone about. If you are looking for a place with neurodivergent and gender-affirming care, book with us today at Blue Sage Wellness where we have several clinicians to choose from. If the choice is difficult to make, there is even a quiz you can take to find the right clinician for you.

Questions you can ask your doctor:

• Could this be ADHD, ASD, or something else?

• How do I know if I have sensory sensitivities?

• What’s the difference between autism and social anxiety?

• Can you refer me to/are someone who works with adults who have ADHD or ASD?