Learning and coordination disorders
Dyslexia, specific difficulties with writing or maths, or developmental coordination disorder can coexist with ADHD. Dyspraxia is more than being clumsy. The affected areas require specific assessment and support.
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ADHD: 9 co-occurring conditions and difficulties
ADHD can coexist with other difficulties. Recognising them helps build a fuller understanding and tailor support.
These nine associations retain the themes of the original page. They are neither inevitable nor exhaustive: everyone has their own profile. One diagnosis should not automatically be used to explain every difficulty.
Updated 7 October 2026
Similar symptoms do not always indicate the same condition. Assessment needs to distinguish ADHD from other difficulties and from their coexistence.
9 areas to explore when relevant
Autism spectrum disorder, including Asperger’s
ADHD and ASD can occur together. Social communication differences, repetitive behaviours, interests and sensory features should be explored when the history suggests them. Asperger’s here refers to ASD without intellectual or language impairment, generally with level 1 support needs.
Anxiety disorders
Generalised anxiety, social anxiety or panic disorder can coexist with ADHD. Worry can also disrupt attention without ADHD being present. Isolated panic attacks are not enough to diagnose panic disorder.
Mood disorders
Depression or bipolar disorder may coexist with ADHD. Restlessness and impulsivity can look similar; their course over time, particularly the episodic nature of mania or hypomania, helps distinguish them.
Addictions
Substance use disorders may be more common in people with ADHD. Some behaviours can also become problematic, but intensive use is not automatically an addiction. Assessment considers loss of control and consequences.
Sleep disorders
Insomnia, delayed sleep timing and other sleep disorders can coexist with ADHD and worsen attention. They can have several causes, including habits, anxiety, physical health and treatment. Sleep therefore warrants its own assessment.
Eating disorders
Binge-eating disorder, bulimia or anorexia can coexist with ADHD. The strength of the association differs between conditions. Eating difficulties require their own care and should not be reduced to impulsivity.
Oppositional defiant disorder
In children, oppositional defiant disorder can coexist with ADHD. It involves a persistent pattern of anger, irritability, defiance or vindictiveness with an impact on functioning. An occasional refusal or a response to overload does not establish the disorder.
Personality disorders
Some personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder, can coexist with ADHD. Impulsivity and emotional difficulties may overlap. Developmental history, relationships and the stability of patterns matter in avoiding confusion.
Why assess co-occurring conditions?
Identifying the difficulties present helps prioritise needs and choose appropriate support. Some aspects of care need coordination. ADHD support can remain useful while requiring adjustments when other conditions are present.
Assessment tailored to your history
Assessment examines current symptoms, their timeline, different settings and the person’s strengths. Questionnaires or specialist assessments may complement the interview. Online screening is a starting point, not a diagnosis of ADHD or its co-occurring conditions.
Understand your functioning better
You do not need to have found an explanation already. Describe your situation and questions to help identify the right assessment.
