Do you have both? Let's learn about Autism and ADHD (AuDHD)

Do you sometimes feel like you don't fit in? Even the slightest noise can distract you, but you can focus on something you love for hours. Do you ever think, "This is me, right?" when you see things on social media ? You may have both autism and ADHD. This is a condition that many people have. So let's talk about it in a simple, straightforward way.

Simply put, what is AuDHD?

AuDHD is not an official medical diagnosis. But it is a term that psychologists and researchers now take very seriously. Simply put, if a person has both Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) , the term used to describe that person is AuDHD (Aut-tism + ADHD).

You may have noticed that some people say, "I am an AuDHD" rather than "I have AuDHD." The reason for this is that these conditions are not seen as a brain disease, but as a natural diversity (neurodiversity) in the human brain. That is, this is not a defect that needs to be fixed, but simply a difference in the way some people think, feel, and see the world.

Imagine, until 2013, doctors weren't allowed to diagnose someone with both autism and ADHD at the same time. But now those rules have changed. Because research has shown that these two conditions often coexist.

What are the causes of AuDHD?

No one knows the exact cause of this yet. But both autism and ADHD are neurodevelopmental conditions. This means that they don't develop all at once in adulthood, but start showing symptoms in childhood or adolescence. You may not realize this until you're in your 30s or 40s, but it has its origins in childhood.

The main factor is genetics. Both conditions can be inherited. Sometimes, after your child is diagnosed with autism or ADHD, you may look at the list of symptoms and think, "Oh my... that's just me." Many adults only start researching their own condition after their child's diagnosis.

In addition, there are other factors that can affect:

• Changes in brain structure, development, or chemical processes.
• Exposure to environmental toxins during pregnancy or after birth.
• The mother's health during pregnancy.
• Being born much earlier than expected.
• Not getting enough oxygen to the brain at birth.

Research shows that there is a strong link between autism and ADHD:

• 50% - 70% of people with autism also have ADHD symptoms.
• 15% - 25% of people with ADHD show symptoms of autism.

Why was this not recognized for so long?

Often, especially in our countries, the diagnosis of these conditions is delayed. There are several reasons for this:

• Old tests: In the past, tests to diagnose autism and ADHD were designed for boys who were the most disruptive and prominent. Therefore, they missed those who were masking/camouflaging their differences and trying to fit in with society, especially girls.
• Life changes: Your symptoms may become more bothersome as your life responsibilities increase. For example, you may feel more distressed when you start working, get married, have a child, or start living alone.
• Misconceptions: Others may misinterpret your changes as "lazy," "arrogant," or "willful."

What are the symptoms of AuDHD?

Everyone's experience is different. But there are common characteristics related to autism and ADHD. As an Autism ADHD person, you may experience these symptoms in conflict with each other. It can be very confusing. Let's look at these symptoms clearly in a table.

Living with such conflicting emotions can lead to conditions such as anxiety and depression.

How do you identify this correctly?

If you have any doubts about this, don't make decisions based on what you read online. The best thing to do is to see your family doctor (Primary Care Doctor). Be open about how you feel, how you're going through your day, and where you're struggling in life.

You can ask questions like:

• "Doctor, do I have ADHD, autism, or something else?"
• "Why can't I stand certain sounds and smells?"
• "Can you please refer me to a specialist for this?"

Your doctor will refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist. A full evaluation may include:

• Talking about your medical history and current challenges.
• Filling out questionnaires.
• Talking to family members who know you well.
• Tests that measure thinking, memory, and social understanding.

Self-tests like the `Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ)` or the `ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS)` available online can give you some idea. However, the scores you get from them cannot determine whether you have AuDHD. For that, a qualified doctor's conclusion is definitely required.

What are the treatments for AuDHD?

There is no single treatment that says, "This is the cure." The most effective way is to use a combination of treatments that work for you.

• Medication: While there is no cure for the core symptoms of autism, medications can help with symptoms associated with ADHD, such as inattention and restlessness. However, people with autism may be more sensitive to the side effects of some medications. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor and try a few different medications to find the right medication and dosage for you.
• Therapy: A qualified therapist can help you manage your emotions and work through your problems. Methods such as `Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)` and `Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)` are very effective.
• Changes in the environment: Perhaps the greatest relief comes from changing your environment rather than changing yourself. For example:
• Using noise-canceling headphones in noisy places.
• Use visual reminders (calendars, lists) to avoid forgetting tasks.
• Getting used to saying "no" to social situations that make you tired.
• Requesting necessary accommodations at the workplace or educational institution.

How to live happily with AuDHD?

Living well with AuDHD isn't about "making it" for you. It's about building your life around your brain . When you understand how your mind works, you can develop strategies, boundaries, and habits that support it.

You can try these things:

• Keep a record of how your energy, focus, and emotions change throughout the day.
• Take time to relax (recovery time) after a social event, such as a party or wedding.
• Create routines that make you feel safe.
• Make more time for the things you love and that bring you joy.
• Talk to people who have had similar experiences to you. Online support groups are also a good place for this.

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