Do You Have Autism or ADHD (OR Both)?

Key wellness/self-care and coping strategies mentioned

• Reframe what you’re experiencing

  • Recognize that ADHD and autism often overlap and are frequently misunderstood.
  • Understand that sensory overload, overwhelm, and “freeze” responses are system effects, not laziness.

• Understand common internal experiences (so you can be kinder to yourself)

  • Sensory/information overload: wanting peace, but being too overstimulated to access it.
  • Overload + freeze response: standing still or being unable to speak/act while your mind/body feels overwhelmed.
  • ADHD-style overwhelm: being pulled outward toward movement/ideas/urgency; mind races ahead.
  • Autism-style overwhelm: being pulled inward toward order/consistency and protection from too much input; mind wants sense-making before action.

• Use a strengths-based perspective

  • Note shared strengths like:
    • Creativity / out-of-the-box thinking
    • Deep empathy
    • Focused attention (including hyperfocus)
    • Pattern-finding and noticing details
    • Passionate interests and deep processing

• Support getting help (without rushing)

  • If seeking clarification or diagnosis:
    • Talk to a doctor first
    • Ask about referral to a psychologist for testing/support
    • Take your time—the process is “yours to navigate at your pace.”
  • Emphasis: You don’t need a diagnosis to deserve kindness and understanding.

• Build a life that fits your nervous system

  • The goal isn’t to “fit a mold,” but to:
    • Align with your strengths and rhythm
    • Learn to work with your mind, not against it

Presenters / sources mentioned

• Tris (animator for Psych to Go; has ADHD)
• Psych to Go (channel/community referenced)
• “ADHD to Go” (referenced as another channel)
• Doctor / psychologist for testing and support (general medical guidance mentioned; no specific individual source)