In brief
Yes, both can be present at the same time. The 2024 expert overview counts attention disorders among the common mental co-occurring conditions in autism. [1] At the same time, they come into question as a differential diagnosis because features overlap: in children and adolescents as in adults, attention disorders are among the conditions from which autism must be differentiated. [1] For additional ADHD, the 2021 S3 guideline recommended above all medication and supplementary psychosocial measures. [2, Rec. 68, 69] The guideline expired on 23.03.2026. [3]
This English translation was produced with AI assistance and has not yet been independently reviewed.
Status of the guideline: This article uses the S3 guideline on therapy (2021). It expired on 23.03.2026. [3] The statements are not automatically wrong, but they are not backed by a valid guideline.
Two diagnoses side by side
The expert overview names attention disorders, together with intellectual disability, anxiety disorders and depression, as common mental co-occurring conditions in autism. [1] How often both occur together, this article does not say, because the sources read give no figure for it. More on co-occurring conditions: Common co-occurring conditions in autism.
Differentiation in assessment
Because of a high overlap of symptoms with other conditions, differentiation in the diagnostic process is highly relevant. In childhood and adolescence, the expert overview names attention disorders among the most common differential diagnoses, and in adulthood as well. [1] More on this: How an autism assessment works.
Treatment according to the 2021 guideline
- Medication is in the foreground. According to the guideline, methylphenidate and atomoxetine are effective for ADHD symptoms in autism and should be used primarily when ADHD is diagnosed. [2, Rec. 69] More on this and on the limits: Medication in autism.
- Psychosocial methods supplement. There were no usable studies on psychosocial therapies for autism and ADHD. Since drug therapy was regarded as very effective, psychosocial methods should only be used as a supplement. For children and adolescents, parent training should be used first. [2, Rec. 68]
- Other methods without proof of added benefit should not be used. [2, Rec. 71]
- Adults should be treated analogously to children and adolescents. [2, Rec. 70]
What else you should know
- Both sets of features can blend. That is why careful assessment is important. You do not have to classify this yourself.
- Professionals decide on treatment with you. Never start, change or stop medication on your own.
- Everyday life: Routines and structure in everyday life.
Note: This article offers general information. It does not replace personal advice or treatment by professionals.
Sources and literature
- Höhne E, Kamp-Becker I. Diagnostik der Autismus-Spektrum-Störung. Pädiatrie (Rosenfluh) 2024;(4+5):27–32. https://rosenfluh.ch/media/paediatrie/2024/04-05/Diagnostik-der-Autismus-Spektrum-Stoerung.pdf – Expert overview (in German)
- DGKJP, DGPPN et al. Autismus-Spektrum-Störungen im Kindes-, Jugend- und Erwachsenenalter. Teil 2: Therapie. S3-Leitlinie, AWMF-Reg.-Nr. 028-047, Stand Text 02.05.2021 (Empf. 68, 69, 70, 71). – Guideline (in German); expired on 23 March 2026 (see no. 3)
- DGKJP. Aktuelle Leitlinien (Eintrag 028-047: „Gültig bis 23.03.2026“). https://www.dgkjp.de/wissen/aktuelle-leitlinien/ – Professional society (website in German)
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