Many adults in the UK are asking themselves an important question:

“Do I have ADHD or autism?”

If you have always felt different, struggled with focus, social situations, routines, or sensory overload, you are not alone. Thousands of adults across the UK are now discovering they may be neurodivergent — often after years without answers.

This guide will help you understand the key differences, similarities, and how to seek a diagnosis in the UK.

What is ADHD?

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and executive functioning.

It is not just a childhood condition. Many adults in the UK are now being diagnosed later in life.

Common ADHD symptoms in adults include:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Easily distracted
• Forgetfulness
• Poor time management
• Impulsivity
• Restlessness
• Difficulty finishing tasks
• Frequent procrastination

Many adults with ADHD describe feeling mentally overwhelmed, even when doing simple daily tasks.

You can read more in our ADHD resource page.

What is Autism?

Autism (Autism Spectrum Condition) affects communication, social interaction, sensory processing, and how a person experiences the world.

Autism is a spectrum, meaning it presents differently in every individual.

Common autism traits in adults include:

• Difficulty understanding social cues
• Feeling socially exhausted after interactions
• Preference for routines
• Sensory sensitivities (noise, light, textures)
• Deep focus on specific interests
• Difficulty with unexpected changes
• Feeling different from others throughout life

Many autistic adults were never diagnosed as children, especially those who learned to mask their traits.

You can also explore our Autism resource page for more details.

ADHD and Autism Can Look Similar

This is where confusion often happens.

Both ADHD and autism can involve:

• Difficulty focusing
• Executive functioning challenges
• Sensory sensitivities
• Social difficulties
• Emotional regulation challenges
• Burnout and fatigue

This overlap can make it difficult to tell the difference without a professional assessment.

Key Differences Between ADHD and Autism

While they share similarities, there are important differences.

People with ADHD often:

• Seek novelty and stimulation
• Become bored quickly
• Act impulsively
• Jump between tasks
• Struggle with organisation

People with autism often:

• Prefer routines and predictability
• Feel distressed by unexpected change
• Have deep, focused interests
• Find social communication challenging
• Experience sensory overload more intensely

However, these are general patterns — not strict rules.

Can You Have Both ADHD and Autism?

Yes.

This is more common than many people realise.

The term “AuDHD” is often used informally to describe individuals who have both ADHD and autism.

Research shows a significant overlap between the two conditions.

Having both may involve:

• ADHD traits like impulsivity and distractibility
• Autism traits like sensory sensitivity and social exhaustion

Many adults in the UK only discover this later in life.

Signs You May Have ADHD, Autism, or Both

You may consider seeking an assessment if you experience:

• Lifelong difficulties with focus or organisation
• Feeling socially different
• Sensory sensitivities
• Chronic overwhelm or burnout
• Difficulty maintaining routines or, alternatively, needing strict routines
• Struggling at work despite being capable
• Mental exhaustion from everyday tasks
• Feeling misunderstood throughout your life

These experiences are valid and deserve proper evaluation.

Why Many Adults in the UK Are Only Now Being Diagnosed

There are several reasons why diagnosis happens later in life:

• Lack of awareness in the past
• Misdiagnosis (such as anxiety or depression)
• Masking behaviours
• Limited access to assessment during childhood
• Increased awareness today

Many adults report feeling relief after finally understanding themselves.

How to Get an ADHD or Autism Diagnosis in the UK

In the UK, diagnosis can be done through:

NHS pathway:

• Speak to your GP
• Request a referral for ADHD or autism assessment
• Join the waiting list

Private assessment:

• Faster access
• Requires payment
• Often costs between £500 and £1,500

Some patients also use the Right to Choose pathway for ADHD assessments.

You Are Not Alone

If you are asking yourself this question, it often means you recognise patterns that deserve attention.

Seeking answers can be life-changing.

Understanding whether you have ADHD, autism, or both can help you:

• Access support
• Understand yourself better
• Improve mental wellbeing
• Make adjustments at work
• Access financial support such as PIP (if eligible)

Final Thoughts

ADHD and autism are not flaws — they are different ways the brain works.

Many neurodivergent people live successful, meaningful lives once they understand themselves and receive the right support.

If you suspect you may be neurodivergent, speaking to your GP is an important first step.

Support is available in the UK.