Neurodiversity impacts individuals across all age groups, and for years, millions of adults have remained undiagnosed. Previously, it was thought that ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and Autism could not coexist due to their perceived differences. Current research indicates that ADHD and Autism might occur together more frequently than we realized. Studies indicate that between 50% and 70% of individuals diagnosed with Autism also have ADHD. A therapist skilled in differentiating and treating both is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
ADHD is so commonly under-diagnosed in adults, it’s believed that a mere 20% of those affected actually realize they have it. Untreated ADHD in adults may lead to other mental health issues like anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, mood instability, and substance abuse. ADHD in adults might have been overlooked during childhood because its subtler “internal” signs, like shyness, daydreaming, or forgetfulness, are easily missed. Subtle signs of adult ADHD can be overlooked by clinicians without specialized training, especially in adults who have compensated for their condition.
Studies indicate roughly 2.21% of adults have Autism. The process of diagnosing adults with Autism is challenging, given that many have developed coping mechanisms to adapt and “mask” their experiences and and characteristics over their lifespan. Much like ADHD, adults with Autism may face challenges in social interactions, leading to co-occurring conditions of depression and anxiety. Social anxiety, alongside negative heightened, or the opposite sought-after, sensory experiences (related to sound, touch, taste, smell, or sight), is common among those with Autism. Heightened sensory sensitivities frequently trigger nervous system overload and subsequent crashes. For those without a diagnosis, this can be disorienting, leading to social withdrawal and feelings of loneliness.
For those who may be experiencing Autistic characteristics, identify with ADHD, or wish to delve deeper into neurodivergence, Marki offers virtual ADHD and Autism assessments tailored to your schedule and comfort. Three, 90-minute sessions are necessary for each assessment to ensure a full and in-depth diagnosis. The assessment includes a full, 10+ page report mapping out your diagnosis and the reasoning behind it. Accommodation letters for your workplace or academic institution may be provided if you decide they are necessary. Our concluding session will involve a detailed examination of the full report, where you are allowed to ask questions and express any concerns regarding the diagnosis(es), followed by a discussion of the next steps.
Marki’s assessment will include identifying any possible differential diagnoses. Given the symptom overlap between ADHD, Autism, and conditions like Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, obtaining the most accurate diagnosis is my priority.
*What is NOT included in the assessment: Marki is not a Psychiatrist and will not be conducting IQ Tests, offering medication suggestions or medication management, or offering eligibility for Medicaid/Medicare/Disability.
References: CDC: “ADHD: Trends in the Parent-Report of Health Care Provider-Diagnosis and Medication Treatment for ADHD: United States, 2003—2011,” “ADHD: Data and Statistics,” “What Is ADHD?”
“Data and Statistics on Autism Spectrum Disorder,” CDC, last modified 16 May 2024
Heather Davis, “Autism and Executive Function,” Adult Autism Center of Lifetime Learning, accessed 21 September 2024.
Klaus W. Lange, Susanne Reichl, Kathrine M. Lange, Lara Tucha, and Oliver Tucha, “The history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder,” Atten Defic Hyperact Discord. 2 no. 4 (2010).
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