The Connection Between ADHD And Auditory Processing Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, more commonly known as ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect both children and adults. Individuals with ADHD may experience another mental health condition simultaneously (called comorbidity), such as auditory processing disorder (APD). In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between ADHD and APD.

Understanding attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) 

ADHD is a form of neurodivergence commonly diagnosed in childhood, though some people are not diagnosed until later in life. ADHD affects executive functions, which are cognitive abilities like short-term memory, planning, problem-solving, and impulse control.

Symptoms and challenges of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Some common ADHD symptoms include:

• Trouble focusing
• Being easily distracted
• Fidgeting or restlessness
• Engaging in impulsive or risky behavior without considering the consequences
• Disorganization
• Difficulty following instructions and recalling information
• Forgetfulness
• Trouble with emotional regulation

ADHD and comorbidity

It’s possible for an individual with ADHD to also live with another diagnosable mental health condition or disorder—a situation referred to as comorbidity. Examples of some conditions that may be comorbid with ADHD include depression, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and auditory processing disorder, among others. All of these conditions can occur without a diagnosis of ADHD. However, comorbidity research suggests that people with some conditions may have a greater risk of developing another particular condition. For instance, as many as 70% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder also have ADHD.

Overlapping symptoms in ADHD and comorbid conditions

Sometimes, comorbid conditions may have overlapping symptoms. In the example of autism and ADHD, some individuals with autism may have difficulties with emotional regulation and trouble with social interactions, common symptoms of ADHD. When someone is diagnosed with both ADHD and autism, it can be difficult to tell which symptoms stem from which condition. The same is true for ADHD and auditory processing disorder.

What is auditory processing disorder (APD)?

Auditory processing disorder (APD) is a broad term that describes several different possible auditory challenges related to how the brain processes auditory input.

Auditory processing difficulties

APD may make it hard for affected individuals to distinguish between certain words or sounds, especially in noisy or otherwise distracting environments. This can result in trouble conversing, following directions, and retaining information. 

Common symptoms of auditory processing disorder

Some symptoms of APD may include:

• Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
• Struggling to understand speech in an environment with distractions such as noise
• Difficulty understanding fast speech
• Struggling to distinguish between similar words
• Drifting in and out of focus in conversations 
• Trouble recalling important information given verbally
• Trouble following verbal instructions

Individuals diagnosed with APD may experience challenges at work, school, and/or in relationships, which is why seeking professional support for them can be so important. If you have ADHD and believe that you may be experiencing symptoms of APD, consider making an appointment with a health care provider who could screen you for APD. 

The link between ADHD and auditory processing disorder

ADHD and APD are separate conditions, but both can affect one’s auditory processing ability.

Challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and APD

Some overlapping symptoms between ADHD and APD can include:

• Trouble concentrating
• Forgetfulness
• Difficulty performing at school or work
• Difficulty following instructions
• Disorganization
• Frequent daydreaming

Co-occurrence of ADHD and auditory processing disorder

One-way auditory processing disorder can manifest is as trouble understanding spoken words—particularly in noisy, distracting environments. This can lead to trouble following instructions and focusing on conversations. People with ADHD may also experience challenges following conversations and not getting distracted, but this is due to the way ADHD affects executive functioning. If an individual has ADHD and APD, they may have increased difficulties in all of these areas—but it’s important to remember that although the two may co-occur, having one doesn’t necessarily mean you have the other. Seeking a professional evaluation and diagnosis or diagnoses is usually key.

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How therapy may help those experiencing ADHD or APD

Both ADHD and APD can cause frustrating symptoms that may negatively affect a person’s well-being and daily functioning. While each of these conditions has its own recommended treatment methods, some methods may benefit symptoms of both in those who are living with this comorbidity. Therapy is one example. 

Benefits of therapeutic interventions

A qualified therapist can offer you a place to express and process emotions related to your symptoms and learn healthy coping mechanisms for them. Some may also be able to provide exercises that may help with things like sharpening short-term memory and support you in identifying accommodations that may be necessary in school, work, or social situations.

Online therapy for ADHD

As ADHD can affect executive functioning, it can be hard for some individuals with this form of neurodivergence to regularly commute to in-person therapy sessions. It’s just one reason why online therapy can be a more convenient alternative in many cases. Through an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can get matched with a licensed therapist who you can meet with virtually from anywhere you have an internet connection without having to travel. Research suggests that online therapy can produce similar outcomes to in-person therapy in many cases.