Overview
Neurodivergent individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may experience meltdowns at some point in their lives. While both conditions share similarities in their impact on an individual's life, ADHD and autism meltdowns present with distinct symptoms and triggers. This post aims to provide an in-depth comparison of the two types of meltdowns in adults, helping to alleviate any confusion and fostering a better understanding of these conditions.
Types of Disorder
ADHD
- Although previously classified as spectrum disorder, experts now distinguish between two main types of ADHD: ADHD, Inattentive Type (also known as Slow-Cognitive Functioning), and ADHD, Hyperactive-Impulsive Type (Hyperactive).
- ADHD is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which may start early in childhood and continue into adulthood.
- The specific cause of ADHD is not yet fully understood, but studies have associated elevated levels of manganese with the condition.
ASD
- ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interactions, communication, and behavior.
- ASD is usually diagnosed before the age of three but may be diagnosed in adults.
- Individuals with ASD may exhibit repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, and sensory sensitivities, affecting their daily functioning.
Meltdowns and Shutdowns
ADHD Meltdown
- An intense emotional or physical outburst caused by overwhelming situations such as sensory overload, frustration, or stress.
- Individuals with ADHD may appear restless, impulsive, and irritable following a meltdown.
ASD Meltdown
- A sudden, overwhelming response to an overburdening of internal stimuli such as bright lights, loud noises, or overwhelming emotions.
- Unlike in ADHD, the cause of an ASD meltdown is often internal and related to the individual's sensory processing and emotional overstimulation.
Ability to Speak
ADHD
- People with ADHD may have the ability to speak and may use inappropriate words or over-explain their points, reflecting linguistic difficulties.
ASD
- Individuals with autism may have speech delays or may be nonverbal. For those who can speak, they may have strong vocabulary but struggle with conveying complex meanings.
Communication Distinctives
ADHD
- May talk excessively or struggle to notice the impact of their words on others and may interrupt others.
ASD
- Find it difficult to interpret social cues, avoid eye contact, and may react to social situations with exaggerated or confused feelings.
Routine and Structural Needs
ADHD
- Find regular routines difficult to maintain, often leading to boredom and fidgeting.
ASD
- Adhere to structured routines to manage their environment and sensory sensitivities, which may lead to rigid and inflexible behavior.
Interests and Attention Characteristics
ADHD
- Hyper-focusing on a particular subject or activity can lead to distractibility if the interest is not maintained.
ASD
- May show exceptional focus on areas of interest, though may struggle with topics that are not desired or that they are not ready to engage with.
Sensory Sensitivities
ADHD
- May show proprioception issues, such as issues with spatial awareness and coordination, due to sensory processing disorders.
ASD
- Often show heightened sensory sensitivity, which can lead to overstimulation and meltdowns when exposed to certain sounds, sights, textures, or crowded environments.
Overstimulation
ADHD
- Overstimulation primarily affects their ability to maintain focus and regulate attention, leading to restlessness and impulsivity.
ASD
- May exhibit hyperactivity or repetitive behaviors as a coping mechanism for the sensory overload and emotional dysregulation.
Exceptional Individuals Webinar: Autism V ADHD
Nat Hawley, Head of Community at Exceptional Individuals, discussed the differences between ADHD and autism during a webinar, highlighting the nuances in their presentations and management.
##Although ADHD and ASD are similar in many regards, the distinct symptoms and triggers of their respective meltdowns can lead to misunderstandings and inadequate support for affected individuals. By gaining an understanding of each disorder's meltdowns, parents and clinicians can better support their children through these challenging periods, allowing them to lead fulfilling lives despite their neurodivergent condition.