Understanding neurodivergence can feel overwhelming, especially when your experiences don’t fit neatly into one category. Many people are familiar with autism and ADHD, but fewer have heard of AuDHD. AuDHD is an informal term used to describe individuals who show traits of both autism and ADHD.
In this blog, we’ll explore what autism, ADHD, and AuDHD are, how they overlap, and what current research shows about these conditions in Wisconsin.
What Is Autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects communication, social interaction, and sensory processing. It is considered a spectrum condition, meaning it can present differently from person to person.
Common traits of autism may include:
- Differences in social communication
- Sensory sensitivities (over- or under-responsiveness)
- Preference for routines and predictability
- Deep, focused interests
- Difficulty with changes in routine
In Wisconsin, autism is increasingly recognized and diagnosed. According to CDC data, about 1 in 36 children were identified with autism in 2020. More recent estimates show continued increases, with Wisconsin reporting approximately 1 in 26 (3.8%) of 8-year-old children identified with autism in 2022, which is higher than the national average of about 3.2% (Rivera-Bonet, 2025).
What Is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. It can impact both children and adults and often presents differently across individuals.
Common traits of ADHD may include:
- Inattention or difficulty sustaining focus
- Hyperactivity or restlessness
- Impulsivity
- Disorganization
- Forgetfulness
In Wisconsin, ADHD diagnoses have also increased over time. Among children aged 3–17 years, 9.9% had a current ADHD diagnosis during 2020–2023, compared to 8.4% during 2016–2019, showing a steady upward trend (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024).
What Is AuDHD?
AuDHD is an informal term used to describe individuals who experience traits of both autism and ADHD. Although autism and ADHD are separate diagnoses, research shows they frequently co-occur.
A meta-analysis of more than 50 studies found that approximately 39% of individuals with autism also have ADHD, highlighting how common this overlap can be (Ying, 2021, as cited in American Psychiatric Association, 2025). Because of this overlap, some individuals receive both diagnoses, while others may have one diagnosis but still show traits of the other condition.
People with AuDHD may experience:
- Executive functioning challenges
- Emotional regulation difficulties
- Difficulty starting or completing tasks
- Sensory sensitivities or sensory seeking
- Time management challenges
Understanding the Overlap
Here’s a visual that helps explain how these traits intersect:
This diagram illustrates how autistic traits and ADHD traits can overlap, with the center section reflecting shared experiences often seen in AuDHD, such as executive functioning challenges and difficulties with emotional regulation. Rather than canceling each other out, autism and ADHD interact in complex ways, which can create experiences that feel layered, inconsistent, or difficult to explain through a single diagnosis.
For example, someone may prefer routine and predictability, often associated with autism, while also struggling with organization and follow-through, which is commonly associated with ADHD. Together, these overlapping traits can shape daily life in unique and sometimes contradictory ways.
Autism in Wisconsin: What to Know
Wisconsin uses statewide monitoring systems to track autism prevalence and developmental trends. Recent findings suggest:
- Autism diagnoses have increased over time
- Some areas report prevalence as high as 1 in 26 children
- Early identification can improve access to support and services
As awareness grows, more individuals are being identified earlier in life, which can improve long-term outcomes and access to resources (Rivera-Bonet, 2025).
Getting Diagnosed in Wisconsin
If you are considering an evaluation, assessment options may include:
- Licensed psychologists
- Neuropsychological testing centers
- Developmental or behavioral clinics
When seeking an evaluation, it can be especially helpful to find providers who understand both autism and ADHD, particularly for adults or individuals who may mask their traits.
How Counseling Can Help
Support for autism, ADHD, or AuDHD is not about changing who you are. Instead, therapy often focuses on:
- Understanding your brain and behavior patterns
- Developing practical coping strategies
- Managing overwhelm and burnout
- Improving emotional regulation
- Supporting self-acceptance
A neurodiversity-affirming approach emphasizes strengths, respect, and individualized support rather than “fixing” differences.
Final Thoughts
If you recognize yourself in both autism and ADHD traits, your experience is valid. AuDHD is becoming more widely recognized, and many people are finding language that better reflects how they think, process, and experience the world.
Understanding these conditions is often the first step toward meaningful support, clarity, and self-acceptance. You don’t have to navigate it alone.
Sources
American Psychiatric Association. (2025). When autism and ADHD occur together.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). State-based prevalence of ADHD diagnosis and treatment (2016–2019 and 2020–2023).
Rivera-Bonet, C. N. (2025, April 15). CDC reports rising autism rates with Wisconsin notably higher than the national average. Waisman Center.
Ying, R., et al. (2021). Prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A meta-analysis. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 83.
