Your Guide to Adult Autism and ADHD Diagnosis

If you’ve ever had the persistent thought, “I’ve always felt different,” you’re not alone. For many adults, the journey toward an autism and ADHD diagnosis starts right there—with a feeling that your internal operating system just seems out of sync with everyone else's. This guide is here to walk you through that journey of self-discovery and validation.

Exploring the Path to an Adult Diagnosis

The search for answers often kicks off after years of feeling misunderstood or just chronically overwhelmed. You might start noticing patterns—struggles with organization, intense reactions to sounds or lights, or a communication style that others find unusual. When these pieces don't quite fit a single label, many people begin to wonder if they might be neurodivergent.

This is especially true for those experiencing the combined traits of autism and ADHD, a combination now widely known as AuDHD. It’s that unique spot where two distinct neurotypes overlap. And this isn't just a feeling; research confirms this overlap is significant. In fact, ADHD rates are about ten times higher in autistic adults than in the general population. For the over 5 million American adults with autism, this connection is a big deal. You can learn more about the high rates of ADHD in autistic adults from recent studies.

Understanding the AuDHD Experience

Living with AuDHD can feel like a constant internal tug-of-war. One part of your brain is pulling in one direction, while the other is yanking you in the opposite.

For instance, you might experience:

• A deep, calming need for routine (autism), clashing with a relentless craving for novelty and stimulation (ADHD).
• The ability to get lost in an intense, long-term hyperfocus on a special interest (autism), but also get sidetracked from simple daily tasks (ADHD).
• A genuine desire for social connection, but feeling completely wiped out by the sensory and social effort it requires.

This internal conflict can be confusing and draining, often masking the underlying reasons for your challenges. Realizing that your brain operates with two sets of instructions—sometimes complementary, sometimes contradictory—is often the first step toward clarity and self-acceptance.

This guide is designed to demystify the entire process. We'll walk through how to identify these overlapping traits, understand your options for a formal evaluation (including telehealth), and figure out what life can look like after getting an autism and ADHD diagnosis. Our goal is to give you the knowledge and support you need to navigate this important journey.

Recognizing the Traits of Autism and ADHD in Adults

Trying to figure out if you have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or both can feel like solving a puzzle where the pieces don't quite fit. The characteristics of each condition are unique, but they also have a surprising amount of overlap, which can create a confusing internal experience. Getting a formal autism and ADHD diagnosis is often what finally brings clarity to these lifelong patterns.

For many adults, this whole journey starts with a simple realization: certain things are just harder for you than they seem to be for your peers. These aren't character flaws or signs of personal failure—they are genuine neurological differences that have been there all along.

The Adult ADHD Experience

When we think of ADHD, we often picture a hyperactive kid, but in adults, it looks very different. The experience usually boils down to three core areas that consistently get in the way of daily life.

• Inattention: This isn't laziness. It's that constant, frustrating battle to get a task started. It’s misplacing your keys or wallet again. It's realizing midway through a conversation that your mind has completely drifted elsewhere.
• Hyperactivity: In adults, this is less about bouncing off the walls and more about an internal restlessness. It can feel like your brain is a race car with no brakes, making it almost impossible to just relax. You might also notice it as physical fidgeting, leg bouncing, or tapping.
• Impulsivity: This can show up as making big decisions on a whim without thinking through the consequences. It might also look like interrupting people before they’ve finished speaking or struggling to wait your turn in a line.

The Autistic Adult Experience

Autism in adults is often defined by a different way of processing and interacting with the world around you.

• Social Differences: You might find yourself taking conversations very literally, finding small talk incredibly difficult, or using nonverbal cues like eye contact in a way that feels natural to you but different to others.
• Focused Interests: These are often called "special interests," and they involve a deep, passionate dive into specific topics. You might become a walking encyclopedia on anything from ancient Roman history to a particular video game series.
• Sensory Sensitivities: This is a huge one. You might be over-sensitive (finding bright lights, loud rooms, or the tag on your shirt completely overwhelming) or under-sensitive (not really noticing pain, cold, or heat until it's extreme).

This helpful infographic shows just how much common ground these two conditions can share, especially in areas like attention, sensory processing, and social interaction.

As the visual highlights, while the root causes are distinct, the challenges can look very similar from the outside. That's precisely why a professional evaluation is so critical for an accurate diagnosis.

Comparing Adult Traits of Autism and ADHD

To help make sense of the similarities and differences, it can be useful to see the traits laid out side-by-side. Remember that everyone's experience is unique, and these are just common patterns, not a checklist.

This table shows how complex the picture can be, especially when both conditions are present. What looks like one thing on the surface could be driven by a combination of factors.

When Autism and ADHD Co-occur (AuDHD)

So what happens when these two neurotypes show up in the same person? You get a unique internal conflict often referred to as AuDHD. In fact, research shows that between 50% to 70% of autistic individuals also meet the criteria for ADHD. If this sounds familiar, it can be really validating to understand whether your traits point to ADHD or autism—or a combination of both.

This combination creates a constant push-and-pull. It's the autistic brain's deep need for predictable routines clashing with the ADHD brain's intense craving for novelty and stimulation.

For instance, an AuDHD person might spend hours meticulously creating the "perfect" weekly schedule (an autistic trait) only to completely ignore it because they can't initiate the tasks (an ADHD trait). Or they might have a lifelong, deep special interest but find themselves constantly distracted by new, short-lived hyper-fixations.

Recognizing this internal tug-of-war is often the first real step toward seeking a comprehensive evaluation and finally making sense of it all.

Navigating the Formal Evaluation Process

Deciding to pursue a formal autism and ADHD diagnosis can feel like a really big step, but it doesn't have to be intimidating. Knowing what to expect demystifies the whole thing. Think of it as finally getting a detailed instruction manual for your unique brain—one that can provide clarity after years of uncertainty.

The first move is finding the right professional to guide you. Your search will probably point you toward a few key specialists:

• Psychologists (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) are the experts who often conduct the comprehensive diagnostic assessments. They use a mix of interviews and standardized testing to understand your behavior and mental processes.
• Psychiatrists (M.D.) are medical doctors who can not only diagnose but also prescribe medication if that becomes part of your support plan.
• Neuropsychologists dig even deeper into how brain function impacts your behavior and thinking. They often handle more complex cases or perform in-depth testing needed for academic accommodations.

What Happens During the Assessment

Once you’ve found a clinician you trust, the evaluation begins. A thorough assessment is so much more than a single chat; it’s about piecing together a puzzle from multiple sources to get an accurate, holistic picture of you. This multi-faceted approach is critical for telling the difference between autism, ADHD, and other conditions that might show up in similar ways.

The process usually breaks down into a few core parts:

• Clinical Interviews: This is simply a guided conversation about your life. The clinician will ask about your developmental history, what you were like as a kid, your social relationships, and the challenges you’re facing now.
• Self-Report Questionnaires: You’ll fill out standardized forms with specific questions about your traits, behaviors, and feelings. These are structured tools that help turn your experiences into measurable data.
• Direct Observation: Throughout your sessions, the clinician will pay attention to your communication style, how you process thoughts, and your nonverbal cues. This real-time information is incredibly valuable.

A comprehensive evaluation is like a 360-degree review of your neurotype. It combines your personal story (the interview), objective data (questionnaires), and professional insight (observation) to arrive at a clear and reliable conclusion.

Sometimes, a clinician might ask to speak with a partner, a close friend, or a parent. This isn't about second-guessing what you’ve shared. It’s about adding another layer of insight, especially about your early development, which can be tough for anyone to recall perfectly. Their memories can provide helpful context and fill in important gaps.

You can explore this guide on how to get tested for autism for more specifics on what to expect.

Ultimately, the entire process is designed to bring you clarity. By carefully untangling any overlapping traits and looking at your life from all angles, a skilled professional can determine if you meet the criteria for autism, ADHD, or both. This gives you the validation and direction you need to move forward with confidence.

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Using Telehealth for Your Neurodivergent Assessment

The idea of getting an autism and ADHD diagnosis used to mean long waitlists and traveling for in-person appointments. But with the rise of telehealth, that’s all changing. Now, you can connect with a qualified psychologist right from your own home, making the whole process much more accessible.

This shift couldn’t have come at a better time. As awareness grows, so does the need for these evaluations. For instance, recent data shows that autism affects about 1 in 31 children by age 8. This isn't necessarily because autism is more common, but because we're getting much better at recognizing the signs. This increasing demand makes virtual assessments a vital option for so many families and adults searching for answers. You can discover more insights about autism statistics and trends on ProsperaHealthcare.com.

How Virtual Assessments Work

It's natural to wonder how a clinician can really understand something as complex as neurodivergence through a computer screen. The truth is, the process is thoughtfully adapted for a virtual setting, not just a watered-down version of an in-person visit.

Clinicians use a few key methods to build a complete and accurate picture:

• Secure Video Interviews: Think of these as deep-dive conversations on a platform like Zoom or Google Meet. They allow the psychologist to observe communication styles, body language, and other nonverbal cues in real time.
• Digital Screening Tools: You’ll also fill out validated online questionnaires and self-reports. This provides structured information that gives the clinician valuable data to complement what they observe during the interview.
• Observation in Your Natural Setting: This is a unique benefit of telehealth. Seeing you in your own space, where you're most comfortable, can offer genuine insights that might not surface in a sterile clinic office.

A common myth is that telehealth is somehow less effective. In reality, for many people, being in a familiar environment actually reduces the anxiety of an assessment. This can help you be more yourself, allowing authentic traits to shine through and often leading to a more accurate diagnosis.

Preparing for a Successful Telehealth Evaluation

A little prep work can make all the difference for a smooth telehealth evaluation. Taking a few simple steps beforehand helps ensure the technology fades into the background, so the focus can stay right where it belongs: on you and your story.

Here are a few tips to get the most out of your virtual appointment:

1. Test Your Tech: Before your session, do a quick check of your internet, camera, and microphone. A test call with a friend can help you iron out any technical glitches and prevent last-minute stress.
2. Create a Private Space: Find a quiet spot where you won’t be interrupted. Feeling safe and private is key to opening up and sharing personal information honestly.
3. Prepare Your Notes: It's tough to remember everything you want to say on the spot. Before your autism and ADHD diagnosis session, jot down some notes about your key experiences, challenges, and any questions you have. This way, you can make sure you cover everything that’s important to you.

How to Understand Your Diagnostic Report

Getting your diagnostic report after an evaluation is a pretty big deal. This document isn't just a clinical summary; it's more like a personalized user manual for your unique brain. It takes all the complex observations and data and turns them into a powerful tool for self-understanding, giving you a clear path forward on your autism and ADHD diagnosis journey.

The report might look a little dense at first, but it’s actually put together in a logical way, designed to build a complete picture of your neurotype. Knowing what each part means helps you pull out the most valuable insights for yourself.

What’s Inside Your Report

While the exact format can differ from one clinician to another, most thorough reports will have a few key sections that work together to tell your story.

• Background Information: This part sets the stage. It covers your developmental history, family background, and the specific reasons or challenges that brought you in for an evaluation in the first place.
• Assessments Used: Here, the clinician gets specific, listing out all the questionnaires, screening tools, and structured interviews that were part of your assessment. This keeps things transparent, so you know exactly how they gathered information.
• Clinical Observations: This section details the clinician's direct impressions from your sessions together. It might describe your communication style, how you process thoughts, and other behavioral patterns they noticed in real time.

The final diagnostic conclusion is built on top of all these other sections. It’s not just a label—it's a synthesis of your personal history, the assessment data, and the clinician's expert observations. This is where it will confirm whether you meet the criteria for autism, ADHD, or both.

Your Personal Roadmap for Next Steps

Honestly, the most powerful part of the entire report is often the Recommendations section. Think of this as your personal roadmap. It translates the clinical diagnosis into practical, actionable steps that are specifically tailored to your needs and goals.

These suggestions are all designed to help you thrive. For example, they might include things like:

• Seeking out neurodiversity-affirming therapy
• Thinking about medication options for ADHD symptoms
• Requesting specific accommodations at work or school
• Connecting with peer support groups

This report is the key to unlocking support and truly understanding the combined experience of AuDHD (autism and ADHD). It gives you the power to interpret your results with confidence and move forward with a clear, supportive plan.

Building Your Life After an AuDHD Diagnosis

Getting an autism and ADHD diagnosis isn't the end of the road—it's the beginning of a new one. Finally having that confirmation can unleash a mix of emotions. You might feel a wave of relief, the validation of knowing you weren't "making it up," but also a sense of grief for the person you were, who had to navigate life without these crucial answers.

This is all completely normal. This moment is your new starting line, giving you the chance to intentionally build a life that actually works for your brain, not against it. The path forward isn't a one-size-fits-all map. Your AuDHD is unique, and so is your journey. This is about using this new self-knowledge to figure out what you need to thrive, not just survive in a neurotypical world.

Finding Your Support System

The first step is usually figuring out what kind of support feels right. This looks different for everyone, but a few common paths are a great place to start. For many, connecting with a neurodiversity-affirming therapist is a game-changer. These professionals get it—they understand AuDHD and can help you process the diagnosis, develop practical strategies, and learn to advocate for yourself without trying to "fix" your core identity.

A diagnosis is a tool, not a label. It gives you the language to ask for what you need and the permission to stop trying to fit into a neurotypical mold. It’s about creating an environment where your strengths can shine.

You might also want to look into:

• Medication for ADHD: For some, medication is a critical piece of the puzzle. It can help manage challenges like executive dysfunction and focus issues, freeing up mental energy for everything else.
• Requesting Accommodations: Your diagnostic report is a key that can unlock support at work or school. This could be anything from flexible hours and a quieter workspace to noise-canceling headphones—small changes that can make a world of difference.
• Connecting with Community: Finding your people is huge. Online forums, local support groups, and other "neurotribes" offer a space to share experiences with others who just get it. It’s a powerful way to feel less alone.

Creating a Life That Fits You

Your access to these resources can depend a lot on where you live. Awareness and services vary widely across the globe. For instance, autism diagnosis rates in the U.S. are around 1,050 per 100,000 children, while in Bangladesh, the rate is closer to 594.

This gap shows just how important it is to be proactive in finding the right support for your unique situation. You can see how autism rates vary by country to get a better sense of these global differences.

Ultimately, life after an AuDHD diagnosis is about self-compassion and strategic design. It’s about finally learning your own user manual—knowing your limits and honoring your strengths. By mixing professional guidance, peer support, and practical accommodations, you can start moving from a place of confusion to one of empowered self-understanding.

Got Questions About Getting a Diagnosis?

If you’re thinking about getting an autism and ADHD diagnosis, you probably have a lot of questions. That’s completely normal. Getting clear, straightforward answers can make the whole process feel less intimidating and give you the confidence to figure out what's next.

Can I Really Have Both Autism and ADHD?

Yes, absolutely. It's not just possible, it's actually pretty common for someone to be both autistic and have ADHD. The community often calls this AuDHD.

Before 2013, the official diagnostic rulebook, the DSM, didn't allow for a dual diagnosis. Thankfully, that's changed. The current manual, the DSM-5, now recognizes that these two neurodevelopmental conditions often show up together. A good clinician knows how to see the whole picture during an evaluation. They can tell the difference between overlapping traits, like executive dysfunction or social challenges, and spot the unique patterns that point to an AuDHD profile.

What's the Cost for an Adult Evaluation?

This is a big one. The price for a private evaluation can swing pretty wildly, usually anywhere from $1,500 to over $5,000. It really depends on where you live and the clinician's specific credentials.

Insurance coverage can be a bit of a maze. Some plans might cover a piece of the cost, but many adults end up paying out-of-pocket. Your best bet is to call your insurance provider and the clinician’s office before you commit to anything. That way, you'll know exactly what to expect financially.

Here's a pro-tip for managing costs: Look into university training clinics. They sometimes offer high-quality assessments from graduate students who are supervised by top experts, often at a much lower price. This can make a diagnosis much more accessible.

Are Those Online Screening Tests a Real Diagnosis?

No, they aren't. While online tools like the RAADS-R or the ASRS are fantastic for self-exploration, they're not a substitute for a formal diagnosis. Think of them as a helpful first step—they can give you a strong signal that it's time to talk to a professional. But they can’t give you a definitive answer.

A real autism and ADHD diagnosis can only come from a qualified professional, like a psychologist, after they’ve done a complete assessment. This isn’t just a quick quiz; it involves in-depth clinical interviews, a look back at your personal history, and direct observation to make sure the conclusion is accurate and to rule out any other possibilities.

Ready to get the clarity you deserve and take the next step on your journey? The Sachs Center offers expert, telehealth-based evaluations for adults looking for answers about ADHD, autism, or both. Book your virtual assessment today.

George Sachs PsyD

Dr. Sachs is a clinical psychologist in New York, specializing in ADD/ADHD and Autism in children, teens and adults.

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