Understanding the Overlap Between ADHD and Dyslexia: Strengths, Differences and Post-Diagnostic Support

taniaslt
4 days ago
3 min read

At CADS Autism & ADHD, we regularly support children, young people and adults who have co-occurring neurodivergent profiles, most commonly autism, ADHD and dyslexia. These neurotypes frequently overlap, and while this can bring genuine challenges, it also comes with distinctive strengths, ways of thinking and learning, and enormous potential.

Understanding these overlaps is a crucial part of helping individuals develop self-understanding, confidence and self-esteem.

ADHD and Dyslexia: More Than Just Difficulties

ADHD and dyslexia are often discussed in terms of what feels hard – attention, reading, writing, organisation or pace. However, a strengths-based, neuroaffirming approach allows us to see the whole person, not just the areas of difference.

Research suggests that:

Around 40% of children with ADHD also experience reading-based learning differences.
ADHD is the most common co-occurring condition in individuals with dyslexia.

This overlap can sometimes lead to misunderstanding or delayed identification, particularly when one profile masks the other. At CADS, we take time to understand how these neurotypes interact for each individual.

Shared Experiences – and Shared Strengths

Many individuals with ADHD and dyslexia share experiences such as:

Needing extra time to process information
Finding reading and writing effortful
Difficulty recalling words or sequences
Becoming overwhelmed when tasks feel inaccessible

Alongside these experiences, there are often powerful shared strengths, including:

Creative and flexible thinking
Strong problem-solving skills
High levels of curiosity
Passion-driven learning
Unique ways of understanding information
Resilience developed through navigating challenge

These strengths often flourish when environments are supportive and expectations are realistic.

Recognising Strengths in ADHD

Individuals with ADHD may demonstrate:

High energy, enthusiasm and drive
Creative, original ideas
Strong problem-solving “in the moment”
Hyperfocus on areas of interest
Curiosity and idea-driven thinking
Emotional insight and empathy
Adaptability and resilience

When ADHD is understood and supported, these traits can become assets rather than sources of frustration.

Recognising Strengths in Dyslexia

Individuals with dyslexia often show:

Strong visual and spatial thinking
Big-picture understanding
Creative storytelling and imagination
Innovative and lateral problem-solving
Pattern recognition and design strengths
Strong oral communication skills

Dyslexia does not reflect a lack of intelligence – it reflects a different cognitive processing style.

The Importance of Post-Diagnostic Support

Receiving a diagnosis can be a significant emotional moment. For many individuals, it brings relief and clarity – but it can also raise questions, worries or negative self-beliefs shaped by years of misunderstanding.

At CADS, post-diagnostic support focuses on:

Aiding understanding of individual neurodivergent profiles
Reframing past experiences with compassion
Building self-esteem and self-acceptance
Recognising strengths, not just needs
Boosting confidence at home, in education and socially

For young people especially, understanding why something feels hard – and where they are strong – is fundamental to wellbeing.

Helping Young People Recognise Success

Many neurodivergent young people are quick to notice what they find difficult and slow to recognise success. Part of our work involves helping them:

Identify personal achievements (big and small)
Recognise effort, persistence and growth
Understand that success does not have to look the same for everyone
Develop pride in their interests and abilities

Representation matters. Learning about successful neurodivergent individuals can be hugely empowering. Many well-known figures across science, sport, business, arts and technology are openly ADHD, dyslexic or autistic – demonstrating that difference and success coexist.