Mental Health | Decoding the Differences: HSP, Autism (Asperger's), and ADHD Explained

Hi All,

Today, I want to write about 'neurodiversity.' A couple of my closest friends (both female and male) received diagnoses of ADHD or Asperger's (now referred to as High-Functioning Autism) in their 30s. I've even begun to wonder if I might have traces of ADHD myself (here are some tests you can take). As a highly sensitive person, I've noticed some overlapping traits. During the pandemic lockdown, my friends and I often discussed that we wish someone had reassured us during our tumultuous adolescent years that indeed, 'everything would be okay', and that we weren't strange or fragile. It's just that our brains are wired a bit differently than others'.

Throughout the decades, the understanding of various neurodiverse conditions like the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) trait, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has grown exponentially. In women, these conditions often present differently than in men, leading to potential misdiagnoses or late diagnoses. This post delves into each of these conditions, highlighting their unique features in women, supported by academic research.

I. What are HSP, Aspergers/Autism, and ADHD?

1. Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)

What is it?

• HSP is a trait, not a disorder. About 20% of the population are thought to be HSPs. They have heightened emotional responses and deep cognitive processing.
• HSP is a trait where individuals process sensory data more deeply and thoroughly due to a biological difference in their nervous systems.
• Commonly feel overwhelmed by stimuli, are more tuned to subtleties in the environment, and often need alone time to recharge. Women with HSP often absorb emotions around them and can become overwhelmed in chaotic environments.

Causes:

• Predominantly genetic in nature; it's a trait rather than a condition, meaning it's not caused by any environmental factors or personal experiences.

Addressing HSP as an Adult:

• Awareness: Recognize and accept the trait. Understand that sensitivity isn't a weakness; it can be a strength.
• Self-care: Prioritize downtime and create a quiet space for retreat.
• Boundary-setting: Limit exposure to overwhelming stimuli when possible.

2. Autism (especially Aspergers - high-functioning ones)

What is it?

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Asperger's was previously considered a distinct subtype and is characterized by fewer language and cognitive delays than other types of autism.
• This affects social interaction, communication, and behavior.
• High-functioning autistic individuals with high IQs might excel academically but struggle with social cues, sensory sensitivities, or rigid thinking.
• Autism in women is frequently misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Females often mask or camouflage their autistic traits, making it less obvious to the untrained eye.

Causes:

• The exact cause is unknown, but it's believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Addressing Autism as an Adult:

• Self-awareness: Recognize individual strengths and challenges.
• Professional guidance: Seek therapists specializing in adult autism.
• Support groups: Connect with others for shared experiences and coping strategies.

3. ADHD

What is it?

• ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity.
• Women with ADHD often struggle with the inattentive type, leading to symptoms like forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or being easily distracted.

Causes:

• While the exact cause isn't fully understood, a combination of genes, environmental factors, and early development is believed to contribute.

Addressing ADHD as an Adult:

• Professional diagnosis: If undiagnosed, seeking a professional evaluation is crucial.
• Medication: Some benefit from stimulant or non-stimulant medications.
• Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help manage symptoms.
• Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep can make a significant difference.

*You can take the test here: https://www.additudemag.com/category/adhd-add/symptom-tests/

II. So, how are they different?

While there are overlaps in some of the symptoms and experiences of Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), Autism (specifically Asperger's, which is an older term now mostly folded into the broader Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis), and ADHD, each has distinct characteristics. Here are the key differences:

1. Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)

• Sensory Sensitivity: HSPs are often more sensitive to physical stimuli, such as lights, sounds, and textures. They may become overwhelmed more easily in chaotic environments.
• Emotional Depth: HSPs often have profound emotional reactions and high empathy. They might get moved deeply by music, art, or certain situations.
• Overstimulation: They may need to withdraw from time to time to avoid becoming overwhelmed.

2. Autism (Asperger's Syndrome)

• Social Challenges: Individuals often have difficulty with social interactions, understanding social cues, or building social connections.
• Repetitive Behaviors: Engage in specific repetitive behaviors or rituals and prefer routines.
• Specialized Interests: Might have deep, specialized interests in particular subjects and can talk about them at length.
• Sensory Sensitivity: Like HSPs, those on the autism spectrum can also be sensitive to sensory stimuli, but the reason for the sensitivity typically differs from that of HSPs.

3. ADHD

• Inattention: Those with ADHD (especially the inattentive type) can be forgetful, easily distracted, and might struggle with following detailed instructions.
• Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: This might manifest as restlessness, difficulty remaining seated, rushing through tasks, or making hasty decisions without considering consequences.
• Executive Function Challenges: People with ADHD often have challenges with executive function, which can affect organization, time management, and task prioritization.

Overlap and Coexistence: It's essential to note that an individual can have traits of more than one of these categories. For instance, one can be both an HSP and have ADHD. Similarly, someone with ASD can also have ADHD. This makes it crucial for professionals to conduct thorough assessments to understand an individual's unique combination of traits and challenges.

In essence, while HSP is a sensory-processing trait, both ASD and ADHD are neurodevelopmental disorders, each with its unique set of characteristics. It's essential to approach each with understanding and tailored strategies for support.

III. Other references

1. Website: Additude has a comprehensive information on these three subjects. They also have an informative podcast episode on the overlap between HSP and ADHD.
2. Website: Psychology Today has a comprehensive article on the differences between autism and high sensitivity.
3. Website: Highly sensitive refuge - https://highlysensitiverefuge.com/. You can also take a test. Book is available here.
4. Research: BMC Medicine has published a research paper on the identification and treatment of individuals with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder based upon expert consensus .
5. Website: Creative Earth Art Therapy has a blog post on neurodiversity, highly sensitive people, and autism.
6. Podcast: The Autism & ADHD Diaries Podcast is a podcast that talks about all things autism and ADHD with autistic advocates, bloggers, professionals, and many more.
7. Book: The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You
8. Book: Sensitive

9. Youtube: ADHD and Adult Autism: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Interventions for Both (Aug 10, 2023): https://www.additudemag.com/adult-autism-symptoms-adhd/

10. Youtube/Podcast