Co-occurrence of Dyslexia and ADHD: Understanding how they overlap
At The Gesher Assessment Centre, we often work with children who struggle with both Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia. These two neurodevelopmental disorders have distinct characteristics, yet the co-occurrence of dyslexia and ADHD is common.
In this blog, Sarah Benarroch, Founder of London Dyslexia Centre, discusses the co-occurrence of dyslexia and ADHD, and some of the challenges this can present.
What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that affects reading, writing, and spelling. Children with dyslexia often struggle with phonological awareness, verbal memory, and processing speed. This can result in difficulty reading fluently, spelling words correctly, and following instructions. However, dyslexia does not reflect a lack of intelligence, and children with dyslexia often excel in creative or problem-solving tasks.
What is ADHD?
ADHD affects attention, impulse control, and executive functions. Children with ADHD frequently have trouble with maintaining focus, particularly on activities requiring extended mental effort, planning assignments, efficiently managing time and controlling impulsive actions. Such difficulties may lead to academic underachievement.
Co-occurence: Dyslexia and ADHD
Studies suggest that up to 40% of individuals with dyslexia also have ADHD, and 25-40% of individuals with ADHD may have dyslexia. While ADHD and dyslexia are distinct, they share several similarities, which can make diagnosis and support more complex.
1. Attention problems
While attention difficulties are central to ADHD, children with dyslexia can also struggle with attention, particularly when it comes to reading and writing tasks. The extra mental effort required for reading can make it harder for children with dyslexia to concentrate.
2. Slow processing speed
Both ADHD and dyslexia are linked to slower processing speeds. Children with dyslexia may take longer to decode words, while those with ADHD may struggle to shift focus between tasks, causing delays in completing assignments.
3. Working memory
Children with ADHD and dyslexia often struggle with working memory, which is crucial for recalling information and following multi-step instructions. This can impact academic performance and daily tasks.
4. Emotional and social effects
When ADHD and dyslexia co-occur, children may experience frustration, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal. Understanding and addressing both conditions can help reduce these emotional challenges.
Improving outcomes
While the co-occurrence of ADHD and dyslexia presents challenges, tailored interventions can help children succeed. Early diagnosis allows for customised support, including strategies to improve focus, the use of assistive technologies, and behavioural strategies. Children can develop the skills they need to manage their learning differences and excel academically and socially.
About Gesher
At Gesher Assessment Centre we offer a range of different core assessments to diagnose autism, ADHD and other related conditions such as dyspraxia. We work closely with Sarah Benarroch where we consider a dyslexia assessment to be beneficial.
We have two assessment centres, one in Harrow in North London and we see families from a wide area across North and Greater London including Ruislip, Uxbridge, Hayes, Hillingdon, Ickenham, Barnet, Mill Hill, Hendon, and Watford. Our second centre is in Elstree and clients come from areas including Hertsmere, Elstree, Borehamwood, Bushey, Radlett, Shenley, Three Rivers, South Oxhey, Rickmansworth, Mill End, Chorleywood, Abbots Langley.
To find out more about Gesher Assessment Centre please contact us via telephone, email or via our contact form. It’s really helpful if you can provide some background information about your situation and concerns. We’ll talk with you discuss possible next steps and how we may be able to help you.
Further information
The British Dyslexia Association (BDA)
References
Ciulkinyte, A., Mountford, H.S., Fontanillas, P. et al. Genetic neurodevelopmental clustering and dyslexia. Mol Psychiatry 30, 140–150 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41380-024-02649-8