Neurodiversity

Autism & ADHD

Concise background information with current NHS source checks shown automatically.

Autism

Different ways of experiencing the world

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that can affect communication, social understanding, attention, learning and sensory processing. Autistic people vary greatly in strengths, preferences and support needs.

  • Sensory differences can involve sound, light, touch, smell, taste or texture.
  • Routines, intense interests and different communication styles can be important parts of autistic life.
  • Masking can make traits less visible while still requiring significant effort.
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ADHD

Attention, activity & impulse regulation

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition involving differences in attention, activity level and impulse control. Adults may experience distractibility, forgetfulness, organisational difficulty, restlessness or impulsivity.

  • Symptoms usually begin before age 12, even when diagnosis happens in adulthood.
  • Some people mainly have inattentive symptoms; others also have hyperactive and impulsive symptoms.
  • Support can include practical adjustments, psychological approaches and specialist-supervised medication.
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