Autism vs. OCD vs. ADHD

It’s becoming more common these days for someone to suspect they have autism, ADHD, or OCD, only to discover that they actually have a different condition from the one they initially thought.

While much of this confusion can be attributed to information they may have seen online or on social media, all three of these disorders share an overlap in symptoms, making it easy to confuse one disorder for another.   

To clear up the confusion surrounding these three disorders, let’s take a look at what they are, what they have in common, and what makes them unique.

What Are Autism, OCD, and ADHD?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) impairs someone’s ability to communicate and interact with the world around them. Individuals with ASD will typically have highly specific and seemingly obsessive interests, and they’re also prone to exhibiting repetitive behaviors. 

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is defined by obsessions and compulsions. People with OCD experience recurrent, unwelcome, obsessive thoughts that cause anxiety. As a response, individuals will turn to specific, repetitive behavior in attempts to quell the anxiety.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by a lack of attention as well as increased hyperactivity and impulsivity. Someone with ADHD usually experiences difficulties with maintaining focus, emotional dysregulation, and executive dysfunction.

Read our educational resources for more information on these disorders:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

What Do Autism, OCD, and ADHD Have in Common?

ASD, OCD, and ADHD have several symptoms in common. This makes it easy to mistakenly believe you have one disorder when, in reality, you have another. 

Some of the symptoms that ASD, ADHD, and OCD share are:

• Executive dysfunction
• Specific anxieties
• Self-soothing behaviors
• Sensory issues
• Intrusive thoughts
• Strong preference for structured routines

Due to these overlapping symptoms, it can be hard for someone to accurately determine which specific disorder they have. This is why it’s important to consult a mental health professional, not only to receive an accurate diagnosis but also to receive the treatment needed to manage your mental health disorder effectively. 

Is ADHD Part of the Autism Spectrum?

ADHD is not part of the autism spectrum, but these two conditions are closely related. In fact, according to scientific literature, 50-70% of people with ASD are also diagnosed with ADHD.

It’s common for both someone with ASD and someone with ADHD to have difficulties with executive dysfunction, emotional dysregulation, and sensory sensitivities. Although they share several commonalities, both disorders have distinct symptoms and underlying causes that make them unique.

Is OCD a Sign of Autism?

Having OCD isn’t always a sign that you also have ASD. That being said, according to the National Institute of Health, someone with ASD is much more likely to also be diagnosed with OCD at some point in their life, and vice versa.  

OCD and ASD are two distinct disorders, and someone may have one but not the other. However, these disorders can resemble each other due to the repetitive behaviors and need for a structured routine that are often present in each.

Read our related article to discover the similarities and differences between autism and social anxiety.

What Are the Differences Between Autism, ADHD, and OCD?

Despite their overlap in symptoms, ASD, ADHD, and OCD each have distinct causes, symptoms, and treatments that make them unique. Recognizing these differences can not only help someone receive an accurate diagnosis, but it also helps them receive the correct treatment.

What Makes Autism Unique?

Autism is a developmental disorder, meaning there was an interruption in someone’s brain development that affects how they process information, communicate, and relate to others     

The unique symptoms of ASD are repetitive behaviors and difficulties with communication and socializing. Treating ASD usually involves helping someone manage these symptoms, and it can include behavioral therapy, speech therapy, and social skills training.

What Makes OCD Unique?

OCD is a mental and behavioral disorder that is associated with an imbalance in brain chemistry, particularly involving the neurotransmitter serotonin. Unlike the other two disorders, OCD is characterized as an anxiety disorder.

The unique symptoms of OCD are persistent, obsessive thoughts and repetitive, compulsive behaviors. Although repetitive behaviors are also associated with ASD, they are driven by different motivators. In those with OCD, repetitive behaviors are directly linked to obsessive thoughts, unlike in ASD, where it’s linked to sensory regulation and focused interests.

OCD is often treated with behavioral therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps those with OCD by restructuring the obsessive thoughts that become repetitive behaviors. In some cases, certain medications may also be used to reduce their anxiety symptoms.

Read our related article to learn what makes OCD worse.

What Makes ADHD Unique?

ADHD is often considered to be a developmental disorder, but it is sometimes categorized as a mental health or behavioral health disorder. The exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, but most experts agree that it’s rooted in a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors.

The unique symptoms of ADHD are hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulties with regulating focus and attention. While certain medications can help someone manage these symptoms, behavioral therapies like CBT and DBT can help someone improve their organization, impulse control, and emotional regulation.

Read our related article to discover the benefits of DBT for ADHD.

Get the Treatment and Support You Deserve

Receiving an accurate diagnosis can make the difference between feeling lost in your struggles and getting the treatment you need to manage your symptoms effectively.

At Inner Balance, we can help you correctly identify the mental health disorder that’s at the root of your symptoms and ensure you receive the right treatment and support. No matter what disorder you’re struggling with, our counseling services are designed to provide you with expert guidance and compassionate care. 

‍Reach out today to connect with one of our mental health experts and take the first steps towards understanding your mental health.