ASD, ADHD, both?

[goldpendant]

DS is 9 and in year 4. At various points since his was very young I have suspected some kind of ASD, but generally we have stopped short of an assessment as he copes very very well socially and at school. As the years go on I’m starting to think it might be ADHD instead, and a general boredom/frustration coupled with huge amounts of energy that lead to his meltdowns etc.

Is it common for the two to go hand in hand, or to have similar symptoms? We have spoken to GP this week who is happy to refer to CAHMS for assessment - will they consider both options together?

Any insights most welcomed. TIA

To clarify, when I say he copes well at school I mean he copes with the structure etc. Academically he’s not brilliant - maths is average but literacy is very weak.

ASD and ADHD can be comorbid.

They will only assess for both if they are commissioned to assess for both. In some areas there are separate pathways or teams that assess each, and in some areas the community neurodevelopmental paediatricians assess for ASD. If they aren’t commissioned to assess for both what they should do is refer on if they suspect the other.

Thanks very much @JustKeepBuilding - will I get the opportunity to express my concerns that it could be both when I first speak to CAHMS? And separately if anyone has any idea on current wait times to assessment, that would be helpful… in SW London.

many thanks 😊

You will get a chance to raise your concerns with CAMHS.

Although I would express your concerns to the GP prior to referral. Then if it is 2 separate referral routes (and your area allows referrals to both simultaneously, not all do, some prefer to complete one assessment before starting the other) they will be able to refer to the right places at the same time.