Understanding Co-occurring Conditions with Adult ADHD

What is a Co-morbid Condition?

A co-morbid condition, or comorbidity, refers to a separate health issue that exists alongside another primary condition. It’s important to understand that ADHD in adults often doesn’t occur in isolation, and a significant percentage of individuals with ADHD may have one or more co-existing conditions that can impact their well-being and require specific attention.

Common Conditions Related to Adult ADHD

Several mental health conditions frequently co-occur with ADHD in adults. Recognising these common comorbidities is crucial for a comprehensive understanding and effective management. The most common co-occurring conditions include:

• Depression: Feelings of persistent sadness, loss of interest, and low energy.
• Anxiety: Excessive worry, nervousness, and fear that can interfere with daily life.
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterised by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours or mental acts.
• Learning Disabilities: Difficulties in specific areas of learning, such as reading, writing, or mathematics.

Identifying Co-morbid Conditions During Your Adult ADHD Assessment

During your comprehensive ADHD assessment with our expert consultant psychiatrists and psychologists, you will be thoroughly evaluated for any present symptoms of co-occurring conditions. Our clinicians have extensive experience in recognising the interplay between ADHD and other mental health issues. Therefore, the detailed report you receive following your assessment will provide a comprehensive diagnosis, clearly indicating whether you have ADHD, if any co-morbid conditions are present, and what those conditions are.

Our Approach to Co-morbid Conditions in Adults with ADHD

As our clinic specialises primarily in ADHD, our direct treatment focuses on ADHD itself. However, we understand the significant impact of co-occurring conditions. Your consultant will be happy to provide clear recommendations regarding appropriate treatment and/or medication for any identified co-morbid conditions. Where possible, we will also offer referrals to trusted colleagues outside of our clinic who specialise in those specific areas.

In some instances, effectively managing a co-morbid condition may be a necessary first step before commencing ADHD medication. This is because untreated co-morbidities can sometimes interfere with the effectiveness or tolerability of ADHD medication. In such cases, we welcome you to return to our clinic for your recommended ADHD treatment once your co-morbid condition is well-managed.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the Context of Adult ADHD

It’s important to note that in some adult assessments, our consultants may identify traits that suggest the potential presence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), either alongside or instead of ADHD. Both ADHD and ASD are neurodevelopmental conditions and can share some overlapping characteristics. ASD is also characterised by difficulties in communication and social interaction, as well as repetitive and restricted behaviours and interests.

While individuals with ADHD often experience challenges with attention span and focus, those with ASD may exhibit intense focus on specific areas of interest. Our comprehensive assessment process is designed to carefully differentiate between these conditions and identify any co-occurrence.

Adult Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessments

An ASD assessment is a distinct and comprehensive evaluation typically completed by both a psychiatrist and a psychologist. It is a separate process from an ADHD assessment. Should our consultants identify a significant likelihood of ASD during your ADHD assessment, they will clearly recommend a separate ASD assessment in your report, outlining the reasons for this recommendation.

We offer a dedicated and efficient service for adult ASD assessments, helping you gain clarity without the lengthy waiting times often associated with NHS referrals.