1.5 Describe the effects of other conditions that may co-occur with autism

This guide will help you answer 1.5 Describe the effects of other conditions that may co-occur with autism.

Autism is a developmental difference that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and processes information. Many individuals who are autistic have other conditions at the same time. These conditions are often called ‘co-occurring conditions’ or ‘comorbidities’. Learning about the effects of these conditions can help support workers provide better care.

This guide covers the common co-occurring conditions with autism and their effects on health, behaviour, learning, and everyday life.

What Are Co-Occurring Conditions?

A co-occurring condition is any medical, developmental, or mental health condition that is present alongside another primary diagnosis. In this case, the primary diagnosis is autism. Co-occurring conditions are common in autistic people. Some may have one, while others might have several.

Recognising co-occurring conditions early helps support workers plan person-centred and safe care. These conditions can affect how a person communicates, behaves, or manages day-to-day activities.

Examples of Common Co-Occurring Conditions

Autistic people might experience a wide range of additional conditions. Below are several common examples:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Learning disabilities
• Anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Epilepsy
• Sensory processing difficulties
• Gastrointestinal (GI) problems
• Sleep disorders
• Motor coordination difficulties
• Genetic syndromes such as Fragile X syndrome
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Let’s look at each in detail—focusing on practical effects.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD affects focus, impulse control, and activity levels. Someone with both autism and ADHD may:

• Struggle to concentrate on tasks or instructions
• Be easily distracted by sights, sounds, or thoughts
• Act impulsively, sometimes without thinking of the consequences
• Find it hard to wait or take turns
• Experience restlessness or a need to move constantly

Combined effects may make school or social situations harder. An autistic person with ADHD could appear more active, unpredictable, or inattentive.

Learning Disabilities

Learning disabilities are lifelong conditions that affect the way a person learns and processes information. People with both autism and a learning disability may:

• Find reading, writing, or maths difficult
• Need information presented in simple, concrete ways
• Take longer to learn new skills
• Benefit from routines, repetition, and step-by-step instructions

This can contribute to difficulties in academic settings but can often be supported with the right teaching and communication methods.

Anxiety Disorders

Many autistic people live with high levels of anxiety. Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or fear that is sometimes overwhelming. Effects can include:

• Avoiding social interactions or new situations
• Repetitive behaviours or routines used as coping mechanisms
• Physical symptoms such as stomach aches, headaches, or panic attacks
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

High anxiety might lead to frequent emotional outbursts or withdrawal from group activities.

Depression

Depression affects mood, motivation, and thinking. An autistic person with depression may:

• Seem unusually quiet or withdrawn
• Show changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Lose interest in favourite activities or hobbies
• Express feelings of sadness or low self-worth

Depression may look different within the context of autism. For example, some people may communicate distress through behaviour, not words.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a condition that affects the brain and causes seizures. Seizures are episodes of unusual electrical activity in the brain. Effects can be:

• Periods of staring, confusion, or loss of awareness
• Sudden falls or convulsions
• Possible injuries during seizures
• Recovery periods that include tiredness or confusion

Workers supporting someone with both autism and epilepsy must understand how to respond safely during a seizure and follow their health care plan.

Sensory Processing Difficulties

Sensory processing refers to how the brain receives and interprets information from the senses. Sensory processing differences can cause:

• Over-sensitivity or under-sensitivity to touch, sounds, lights, or smells
• Discomfort or distress in busy, noisy, or bright places
• Strong need for certain textures or sensory input
• Unusual reactions, such as covering ears or refusing to wear certain clothes

These effects may increase anxiety or trigger meltdowns (strong emotional or behavioural responses).

Gastrointestinal (GI) Problems

GI problems affect the digestive system. Autistic people may have issues like constipation, diarrhoea, or stomach pain. Effects can include:

• Discomfort and distress, which can affect mood and behaviour
• Increased irritability or refusal to eat certain foods
• Difficulties in recognising and communicating discomfort

Chronic GI issues may sometimes be mistaken for behavioural problems.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep problems include trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early. Effects include:

• Daytime sleepiness or tiredness
• Problems with concentration and learning
• Increased irritability or hyperactivity
• Disrupted routines for the individual and their family

Poor sleep can make other symptoms and behaviours worse.

Motor Coordination Difficulties

Motor coordination refers to the ability to move and control muscles. Difficulties with coordination (sometimes called dyspraxia) can cause:

• Problems with handwriting, using utensils, or catching a ball
• Clumsiness or frequent accidents
• Frustration during physical tasks or group activities

This might affect confidence and willingness to join in with play or sports.

Genetic Syndromes

Some genetic syndromes are more common in autistic people, such as Fragile X syndrome or Tuberous Sclerosis. Effects vary but may include:

• Learning disabilities
• Physical health problems such as heart or kidney issues
• Specific behavioural or developmental traits

Understanding any syndromes present can shape support plans and expectant outcomes.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD creates a need to perform particular rituals or mental routines. For someone autistic, OCD may lead to:

• Repetitive or ritualised behaviours
• Severe distress if routines are broken
• Time-consuming or restrictive rituals interfering with daily life

OCD can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from repetitive behaviours linked solely to autism.

The Effects of Co-Occurring Conditions

These additional conditions can have wide-ranging effects on individuals with autism, including their health, communication, behaviour, and social participation.

Effects on Health

• Some conditions, like epilepsy or GI problems, can affect general health and safety.
• Physical health problems might make it harder for the individual to participate in everyday activities or could result in frequent absences from school or work.
• Medication for one condition may affect treatments for another or cause side effects.

Effects on Behaviour

• ADHD or anxiety can lead to fidgeting, impulsive actions, or disruptive behaviour.
• Many use repetitive behaviours (such as rocking or hand-flapping) to self-soothe. This can increase when facing sensory or emotional challenges.
• Frustration from unmet needs or communication problems can lead to meltdowns or withdrawal.

Effects on Communication

• Learning disabilities or anxiety may make speech or language difficulties worse.
• Autistic people may find it difficult to express pain, worry, or sensory discomfort through words. This sometimes results in behaviour that is misunderstood.

Effects on Social Lives

• Anxiety and sensory overload can make group activities overwhelming.
• Sleep or GI problems can interfere with school, social events, or family outings.
• Social skills challenges may be worsened by depression or coordination issues.

Effects on Learning

• Attention issues, sleep deprivation, or learning disabilities can make lessons more difficult.
• Support may be needed for concentration, memory, or understanding instructions.

Impact on Families and Support Staff

Supporting a person with multiple conditions can place extra demands on families and workers. Challenges include:

• Managing medications or health appointments
• Creating clear routines and communication strategies
• Supporting emotional wellbeing alongside physical needs

This support can be rewarding but sometimes emotionally and physically draining. Access to advice, training, and respite is often beneficial.

Recognising Overlapping Symptoms

Many symptoms of co-occurring conditions can look similar to autistic traits. For example:

• Repetitive behaviour could be related to both autism and OCD.
• Restlessness may be a result of either ADHD or anxiety.
• Difficulties with eating might come from sensory processing issues or GI problems.

Identifying what is linked to autism and what is part of another condition supports better care and avoids misinterpreting behaviour.

Working with Professionals

A range of health and social care professionals might be involved in supporting someone with co-occurring conditions. Key professionals include:

• GPs and paediatricians
• Psychiatrists and psychologists
• Speech and language therapists
• Occupational therapists
• Dietitians
• Special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs)

Effective support relies on good communication across all professionals, the person, and their family or carers.

Supporting People with Co-Occurring Conditions

Each person’s experiences are unique. Support workers can help by:

• Using clear, simple communication
• Support routines to reduce anxiety
• Creating calm, sensory-friendly environments
• Monitoring for changes in mood, behaviour, or health
• Reporting concerns promptly to relevant professionals
• Encouraging involvement in activities that build skills and confidence

Providing tailored care plans and updating these when someone’s needs change helps maintain a good quality of life.

Final Thoughts

Many people on the autistic spectrum experience other conditions that affect their daily lives. Recognising and understanding these conditions helps care workers see the full picture behind an individual’s behaviour or needs.

Support should always see each person as an individual, respecting their strengths and preferences. Good communication and a willingness to learn about each individual’s unique needs are key. When support workers understand the mix of conditions present, they can help create an environment where the individual feels safe, valued, and able to achieve their best potential.