autism or adhd?

[lonerwolf]

what is autism and how is it different from adhd ?

anyone tried q link bracelets or necklaces to help with adhd?

do anyone have any coping skills for overwhelming thoughts?

[waterfalls]

Hi Lonerwolf, thanks for asking the question, I've been wondering does ADHD fall under Autism myself, looking forward to any replies.

[cjnolet]

I always bring up mindfulness for overwhelming thoughts. I haven’t been meditating lately as much as I should but my wife definitely noticed a huge difference in me when I was doing it.

It will help remind your brain that you have a body. It works out your brain muscle and practices having you control your focus so that you can be in the drivers seat.

I’ve been using an app called Headspace and I find its really put me in a good state of mind.

[happy_kitty in reply to cjnolet]

I agree with cjnolet. Meditation helps. I only just started myself and I'm just starting to get into a regular routine, but it's already making a difference in the decisions I'm making. I have also been using headspace and it makes it easier.

[cjnolet]

I actually found the article below very helpful.

aane.org/is-it-aspergers-or...

It had me wondering which I am, to be honest. I believe I am, without a doubt, ADHD. My childhood was filled with compulsions of outbursts in class and inattentiveness due to being lost inside my thoughts and an aversion to authority figures.

[MSGSTL]

Hi Lonerwolf!

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is considered a neurological disorder, developmental disorder as well an intellectual disability. There are varying degrees of ASD which describe the degree of functional impairment and symptoms commonly displayed by the individual with ASD. I, for example, was diagnosed in June 2016 after taking an IQ test, an impulsivity measure, and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), as having ASD Level One. This level of ASD is what used to be known as Asperger's Syndrome. In 2013, the DSM-5 placed all forms of autism under the umbrella of ASD. The ADOS is a standardized diagnostic test for ASD used particularly in children and young adults. It has found to be an effective tool for diagnosing ASD in adults as well. I received my diagnosis utilizing the ADOS as well as other criteria found in the DSM-5. As the term Asperger's "Syndrome" implies, ASD is comprised of several co-occurring conditions also referred to as "comorbidities". Among the most common of these comorbidities are: Anxiety, depression, Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Generalized anxiety disorder(GAD), Attention deficit disorder (ADD), and Social anxiety disorder. A hallmark feature of ASD is difficulty in establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships. Those with ASD often present as introverts, preferring to be alone rather than engaged with others. Autistics process information differently than normal (neurotypical) individuals do. They tend to create their own "little worlds" in which they can act in a manner which is most comfortable for them. People with ASD are detail-oriented, noticing the most subtle of nuances in a painting for example. Those with strictly ADD/ADHD do not typically have the type of problems with relationships as one with ASD. The three symptoms most commonly associated with ADD/ADHD include: Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Hyperactivity generally wanes as the child grows older, and is often undetectable in adults who are then said to have ADD. Regarding your "overwhelming" thoughts, I find mindfulness therapy helpful in "redirecting" your attention to more pleasant and productive ideations. Understanding the nature of these thoughts is key to developing strategies for coping. I will try to "name" the emotions that exist when I experience intrusive thoughts or ideations. Best of luck. I hope this finds you well.