Identifying ADHD can be complicated because there is no definitive medical test that can prove or disprove the presence
of ADHD.
And the diagnosis can be further complicated if a child also has other co-existing disorders.
It is not uncommon for a child with ADHD to also have an additional disorder, such as an anxiety disorder or depression.
ADHD and autism can also be co-existing disorders. In fact, some researchers believe there is a coloration between
ADHD and autism.
The autism may be more or less severe than the ADHD. And in some cases, what appears to be ADHD symptoms can actually
be autism symptoms.
In order to ensure that a child receives the best possible treatment it is important to make sure the child gets an
accurate diagnosis, which includes a complete physical examination.
Unfortunately a child's ADHD is sometimes complicated with other challenging disorders that co-exist with ADHD.
These disorders might be less severe or more severe than the ADHD.
But correctly identifying a child's individual and specific medical condition will allow parents and professionals to
provide the best possible treatment for the child.
Identifying Autism
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which a child has impaired social interaction and difficulty with verbal
and non-verbal communication.
The disorder is commonly known as 'autism spectrum disorder' because it affects children in various degrees
of severity.
A child who very rarely laughs, cries or fusses by 5 months of age
A child who does not watch the face of someone speaking to them, by 5 months of age
A child not babbling or mimicking speech... ie. 'ma ma' or 'ba ba... by 12 months of age
A child showing no interest in toys or books by 12 months of age
A child not waving, pointing or gesturing by 12 months of age.
Similar Symptoms of ADHD and Autism
Many of the symptoms of ADHD and autism are very similar, which can make a specific diagnosis confusing.
It is very important to closely examine symptoms so that a proper diagnosis and the most affective treatment can
be designed for the child.
When comparing ADHD and autism symptoms we find similarities with...
Social skills: ADHD children have difficulty with social skills, often having difficulty with bonding, and
Autistic children lack the ability to create emotional bonds, and struggle with interactions with others.
Hyperactivity: Many ADHD children exhibit hyperactive behaviour, and autistic children are often easily
over-excited and over-stimulated which can be interpreted as hyperactivity.
Difficulty Adjusting to Change: Both the ADHD and autism can cause a child to have difficulty adjusting to a
change in their regular routine.
Hypersensitivity: Both the ADHD and autism can cause a child to be easily distracted and annoyed by textures
and touch.
Impulsivity:
Both the ADHD and autism can cause a child to react without thinking of the consequences, such as darting into traffic.
