Holistic Approaches to Treating Co-Occurring ASD and ADHD

When attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) co-occur, it can be difficult to identify the best method of treatment for the individual and overlapping symptoms that may occur. Medication is often a frontline approach to ADHD and those with ASD for managing symptoms. There are lots of things to research including adhd disability benefits for your loved one.

However, there are other non-pharmaceutical approaches to increase functioning and decrease symptoms for those who struggle with a dual diagnosis of ASD and ADHD.

Educational and Occupational Supports

Following a dual diagnosis of ADHD and ASD, the intervention team should establish support for helping the individual to function in an education or work environment. This is for after-use assessments like (ADHD-2) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Test for ADHD and (CARS™2) Childhood Autism Rating Scale for ASD.

Psychoeducation

Psychoeducation should be a lifelong process to support changing needs over time. Members of the psychoeducation intervention team can assist with the following:

co-occurring health conditions
community support services and resources
common stress triggers
symptoms and other difficulties
treatment options

School Support

With the diagnosis of a school-aged patient, a team can create interventions to improve functionality in an educational setting. Typical supports include:

allied professionals such as occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists
anxiety supports
classroom environment adjustments to reduce stimuli
health education to prevent substance abuse, pregnancy, and STIs
rewards and positive behavior reinforcement
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) to identify and implement health and educational accommodations
work on adaptive skills
small group environments
visual supports, including agendas and graphic organizers

Transition Period Support

Transition periods, including moving from one school level to another, require particular attention for individuals with ADHD and ASD. Support in the following areas is beneficial:

preparing for work demands in partnership with occupational therapists and career educators
college-level educational support
financial coaching
support with job applications, interviews, and onboarding
Assistance with self-advocacy in a career environment, including the development of organizational, time management, and dispute resolution skills

Mental Health Supports

Research shows that autistic individuals with ADHD are twice as likely to experience anxiety as autistic individuals without ADHD. Intervention plans for co-occurring ASD and ADHD typically include a variety of mental health supports to help manage anxiety.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) assists in recognizing inaccurate or unhealthy thoughts and behaviors and learning to replace them with more helpful and realistic thought patterns.

Mindfulness-Based Interventions

Mindfulness therapies focus on becoming fully present and aware of one’s current body, environment, thoughts, and feelings which helps improve regulation and awareness of emotions and reduce depression and anxiety in those with autism and ADHD.

Sleep Therapy

ASD and ADHD can disrupt sleep patterns, which can worsen depression and anxiety, however, the implementation of behavioral interventions that address these problems can alleviate symptoms.

Family Resources

ADHD and ASD affect the entire family. Providing resources for all family members can significantly improve their quality of life. Effective family mental health interventions include: