Unveiling Truths About ADHD and Autism
There are several myths about ADHD and Autism that need to be debunked. They are neurodevelopmental conditions often misunderstood due to misinformation that perpetuates ADHD and Autism myths. Find out the difference between ADHD and Autism, the latest figures about the number of cases diagnosed and the best options for treatment.
Introduction
Research into neurodivergent conditions, such as ADHD and Autism is relatively new. Over the last 30 years, understanding autism spectrum conditions has grown thanks to an increasing body of evidence about both conditions. Clinicians know more about the similarities between them ADHD and Autism and the best treatments and therapies to minimise symptoms.
Equally, society has become more inclusive and greater neurodiversity awareness means the demand for NHS assessments has increased to uncontrollable levels.
In this blog, we will debunk five common ADHD and Autism myths.
Myth #1: ADHD and Autism Are the Same
A common misconception about ADHD is that it’s the same as Autism. ADHD and Autism are both neurodevelopmental disorders and some of the symptoms can overlap. For example, limited attention span and communication challenges are very typical in both conditions. However, each condition is very different.
Typically, when someone has an Autism diagnosis and treatment plan, they will focus on improving their language skills, behaviour, socialising and their ability to learn. In contrast, ADHD can impact your ability to concentrate, impulse control and general hyperactivity (ie: inability to sit still).
It can be difficult to spot the differences between the two conditions, especially in young children. However, these examples should help to provide some truths about ADHD and Autism:
- Attention span – children with ADHD have difficulty paying attention to the same thing for a long time, whereas children with Autism will have a limited scope of interest and may obsess over things they enjoy. If they find the activity dull, then they may struggle to focus.
- Communication – children with ADHD may talk continually and interrupt others, whereas Autistic children may find expressing their emotions and thoughts difficult
- Routine and structure – routine may be boring for a child (or adult) with ADHD, whereas people with Autism may insist on routines and patterns because changes to routines can cause them to feel upset and irritable.
Myth #2: ADHD and Autism Are Over-diagnosed
Some reports in the media suggest that the NHS is overwhelmed with unprecedented demand for Autism and ADHD assessments. The British Medical Journal reports that 172,022 people with suspected Autism were waiting to see a specialist in December 2023. This is the highest-ever record (and a fivefold increase) since 2019.
There is no contrasting data for ADHD diagnosis, but prescriptions for adults aged 30-34 have increased by 146% during the same time.
Experts are concerned about the pressure on services and the impact delays in diagnosis are having on both children and adults. Increased numbers could be due to the broadening definition of ADHD and Autism, which means more people are now given a positive diagnosis.
Greater neurodiversity awareness and knowing ADHD and Autism facts have helped many adults seek their own diagnosis after their children are assessed. Many realise that the symptoms are frighteningly familiar when their children are being assessed, as was the case for G Sabini-Roberts.
Myth #3: Medication Is the Only Treatment
There is no cure for either ADHD or Autism as both are lifelong conditions. However, managing ADHD symptoms is possible through medication and therapy. Experts advise a combination of both so that the person can thrive at school, work and in their relationships.
Healthy habits such as good sleep and nutrition, exercise and managing your lifestyle in a way that works for you play an important role.
The following therapeutic approaches also help to manage ADHD symptoms:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to manage anxiety
- Sensory Integration Therapy to reduce sensory overload
- Speech and Language Therapy to help with any communication issues
Sometimes, medication is the best solution. Certain stimulants can increase activity in the part of the brain which controls attention and behaviour. For people with ADHD, it’s the best way of managing ADHD symptoms when their brain activity doesn’t fire the necessary receptors in the same way that it does for neurotypical people.
There is no medication specifically for Autism. However, people may benefit from meditation to treat anxiety, hyperactivity and aggression. This could be either an anti-psychotic or a stimulant.
Myth #4: Only Children Can Have ADHD and Autism
Common misconceptions around ADHD state that it only impacts children, typically boys. However, approximately 5% of children globally have been diagnosed with ADHD, and it is more commonly diagnosed in boys compared to girls. ADHD is typically diagnosed in children before the age of 12. However, many adults have been diagnosed, having spent years masking their symptoms and being treated unsuccessfully for anxiety and depression as a result.
As research has been carried out into ADHD, the criteria for the condition have been expanded. As a result, more adults are being diagnosed than ever, and many are seeking a diagnosis when they have their children assessed. NHS research shows that parents and siblings of someone with ADHD are more likely to have ADHD themselves.
While dispelling autism myths, it’s important to know that one in every 100 children in the UK has autism, with four times more boys being diagnosed compared to girls. Understanding autism spectrum disorders has allowed society to become more inclusive, as many people read stories where other people talk openly about their autism and realise that their experiences and feelings growing up were due to them being neurodivergent. Many people see the benefits of having the diagnosis as they find it liberating to finally understand and accept themselves.
Myth #5: ADHD and Autism Cannot Coexist
Top of the list when it comes to debunking ADHD and Autism misconceptions is the ADHD and Autism myth that the two conditions cannot coexist.
Psychiatric research shows that between 50-70% of people diagnosed with Autism also have a comorbidity of ADHD. Children with both Autism and ADHD were found to have more debilitating symptoms compared to children with only ADHD and not Autism. They were more likely to have learning difficulties and impaired social skills.
Many of the symptoms of both ADHD and Autism are quite similar, which is why psychiatrists typically screen for both conditions during an assessment. It was only in 2013 that research showed it was possible for people to have both conditions (called AuADHD). Research to find out why and develop therapies to support people with both conditions is ongoing.
Conclusion
There are lots of common ADHD and Autism myths which can hold people back from seeking the Autism diagnosis and treatment. An ADHD or Autism diagnosis can help them manage their symptoms or simply feel greater self-acceptance.
Truths about ADHD and Autism will emerge through research, which will help with dispelling Autism myths. Studies are starting to show the connection between the two conditions and the probability of ADHD and Autism running in families.
A supportive home, school and work environment will always help both children and adults with ADHD and Autism to thrive. Understanding Autism spectrum disorders and greater neurodiversity awareness will help to build a more inclusive future for the growing number of people with ADHD and Autism.
If you or a loved one are seeking expert guidance and support for ADHD and Autism, don’t hesitate to reach out to the ADHD and Autism Clinic.
Our experienced team is here to provide comprehensive care tailored according to your diagnosis. Take the first step towards a better understanding and Autism diagnosis and treatment.