The Science Behind Co-Occurring ADHD and Autism (AuDHD)

The Science Behind Co-Occurring ADHD and Autism (AuDHD) — Educational Infographic (Printable, A2)

You will receive the printable unwatermarked version of this infographic

A visual guide to why autism and ADHD together create an interactive profile — not just two conditions added side by side, but traits that can pull in opposite directions at once.

This infographic covers:

• Autism-related processing (seeks predictability, notices details, deep focus, sensory sensitivity) vs. ADHD-related processing (seeks novelty, acts fast, easily distracted, craves stimulation)
• How the signals pull in two directions: craves novelty vs. needs predictability, impulsive action vs. cautious thinking, seeks stimulation vs. gets overloaded quickly, hyperfocus vs. difficulty shifting attention
• What AuDHD means, where the two conditions overlap, and what it can look like day to day
• Why support needs to be different: one-size-fits-all advice can miss the contradiction; support needs both structure and flexibility
• What actually helps: predictable structure with room for choice, low-demand transitions, movement and sensory regulation, reduced shame around inconsistency

What you get:

• High-resolution PDF, print-ready and scalable up to A2 (420 × 594mm)
• Instant digital download

Perfect for: SEND and clinical training, therapy rooms, staff CPD, parent carer forums, and personal understanding.

For personal, classroom, and professional educational use. Not for resale or redistribution.

© Nonspeaking Autism

Disclaimer:

This resource is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is designed to support understanding of autism, sensory processing, nervous system regulation, and behaviour from a neurodevelopmental perspective.

The information provided is not medical, psychological, therapeutic, or legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for assessment, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.

Every autistic person is unique. Strategies and supports should always be tailored to the individual's needs, strengths, and circumstances.

If a child displays a sudden change in behaviour, severe distress, signs of illness, injury, or behaviours that place themselves or others at risk, seek appropriate medical advice or emergency assistance where necessary.

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and reflects current understanding, knowledge in autism and neuroscience continues to evolve.

This resource is for the purchaser's personal, educational, or professional use only. It may not be copied, redistributed, resold, edited, shared publicly, or reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission.

© Nonspeaking Autism 💙