Sometimes, people find their way into my virtual office—or into their own self-discovery journey—carrying a mix of questions that feel too big or too tangled to name.
“I’ve always felt different, but I’ve also been everywhere all the time.”
“I can hyperfocus for hours… but can’t remember where I put my keys five minutes ago.”
“I need structure… but I resist it.”
“I feel everything so much, but I don’t always know how to explain it.”
If that sounds like you, it’s possible you’re living with an AuDHD neurotype—a profile that includes both autism and ADHD traits. It’s more common than people realize, and more often than not, it goes undiagnosed until adulthood, especially in women, AFAB individuals, and those who’ve masked their whole lives.
This post is for you—with clarity, affirmation, and some resources to explore when you’re ready.
What Is AuDHD?
AuDHD is not a formal diagnosis, but a growing term in the neurodivergent community used to describe people who experience both autism and ADHD traits. It’s not that you’re “a little of each”—it’s that you live at the intersection of both neurotypes. And that intersection often creates a beautifully complex experience of the world that doesn’t always fit cleanly into diagnostic categories.
Common Traits of AuDHD (You Don’t Have to Have Them All)
-
Highly sensitive nervous system – You may be deeply reactive to sounds, textures, lights, emotions, or social energy.
-
Executive functioning challenges – You might have trouble organizing, prioritizing, initiating tasks, or managing time—yet be capable of incredible focus and output when deeply engaged.
-
Hyperfocus & interest-based nervous system – When you love something, you really love it. You might spend hours learning everything about it… then struggle to do something as “simple” as checking your email.
-
Social complexity – You might feel like you don’t quite fit in, or you’ve developed a lifetime of masking to get by socially—only to feel exhausted or misunderstood afterward.
-
Emotional intensity – You experience emotions deeply, even if you have trouble processing or expressing them at the moment.
-
Burnout cycles – You go all in, then crash hard. Repeatedly.
-
Sensory seeking and avoidance – You might need movement or stimulation in some areas while being completely overwhelmed in others.
-
Internal conflict – A constant tug-of-war between craving novelty and needing predictability. Between loving people and needing solitude. Between doing all the things and being too overwhelmed to start any of them.
You’re Not “Too Much.” You’re Wired Differently—and That’s Valid.
If you resonate with this profile, it’s not a personal failure. You’re not disorganized, dramatic, lazy, or antisocial. You’re neurodivergent. You have a different brain—not a broken one.
Understanding this can be life-changing. It’s not about labeling—it’s about naming what you’ve always known deep down: you experience the world differently, and that’s not only okay—it’s real.
Where to Start: Resources for the AuDHD Journey
Websites & Communities:
-
ADHD Alien – Comics by an ADHD/autistic creator that beautifully explain the lived experience.
-
Neurodivergent Insights – By Dr. Megan Anna Neff, a psychologist who creates digestible, affirming content on ADHD, autism, and the overlap.
-
Attitude Magazine – A trusted hub for ADHD-related articles, tools, and support.
Books:
-
“Divergent Mind” by Jenara Nerenberg – A compassionate look at neurodivergence in women and sensitive thinkers.
-
“Unmasking Autism” by Devon Price – Insightful and empowering, especially for those coming to terms with late-diagnosed autism.
-
“ADHD 2.0” by Drs. Hallowell & Ratey – A deep dive into ADHD with modern insights.
-
“Dirty Laundry” by Richard Pink & Roxanne Emery – A beautifully illustrated book capturing the chaos and compassion of living with ADHD.
Podcasts:
-
“The Neurodivergent Woman” – Explores lived experiences and research about autism, ADHD, and other neurotypes in AFAB individuals.
-
“Hacking Your ADHD” – Quick, actionable strategies for ADHD minds.
-
“Neurodivergent Magic” – Hosted by an AuDHD creator, this podcast affirms and uplifts those living at the intersection.
You Deserve Support That Sees You
If you’ve ever felt like traditional therapy didn’t fit—or that professionals misunderstood your experience—you’re not alone. The clinical world is just now catching up to what many AuDHD folks have known for years: we need affirming, flexible, and deeply individualized support.
At Therapy Dynamics, we work to bridge that gap. We understand neurodivergence not just through textbooks, but through lived experience. Whether you’re looking for clarity, assessment, diagnosis, or therapeutic support, we meet you where you are—with respect, compassion, and no pressure to “perform.”
You’re not imagining it. You’re not broken. You’re not alone.
You’re AuDHD—and there’s a whole community (and world) waiting to welcome you.