Autism can explain a lot—but not everything. Many children on the spectrum also live with additional disorders like OCD, epilepsy, or gastrointestinal issues. These are known as comorbidities, and they can play a major role in your child’s experience and progress.
What is a Comorbidity?
A comorbidity is when two or more conditions exist at the same time in the same person. For children with autism, this means they may experience additional challenges beyond those typically associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
These conditions can affect behavior, learning, emotional regulation, physical health, and overall well-being. Recognizing and treating comorbid conditions early can improve quality of life and support more targeted care.
Common Comorbidities in Children with Autism
Let’s take a closer look at the most common conditions that can occur alongside autism. Each child is different, so while some may experience several of these, others may have none at all.
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
ADHD is one of the most common comorbidities with autism. Children with both autism and ADHD may struggle with focus, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and regulating attention.
Because some symptoms of ADHD and autism overlap, it can be hard to diagnose both. But identifying ADHD is important—it helps caregivers and educators understand how best to support a child's attention and self-regulation.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety is another frequent co-occurring condition with autism. Children may become easily overwhelmed, especially in unfamiliar situations or when routines are disrupted. Anxiety can present through physical symptoms (like stomachaches), emotional reactions (like meltdowns), or avoidance behaviors.
Social anxiety is particularly common, especially as children grow older and become more aware of social expectations and differences.
Sensory Processing Differences
While not officially classified as a standalone diagnosis in the DSM-5, sensory processing challenges are common in children with autism. These children may be extremely sensitive (or under-sensitive) to lights, sounds, textures, smells, or movements.
Sensory sensitivities can impact everything from how a child eats to how they handle noisy classrooms or transitions. Understanding a child’s sensory needs is key to reducing stress and supporting their comfort.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy, or seizure disorders, are significantly more common in individuals with autism compared to the general population. Seizures may range from noticeable convulsions to subtle changes in awareness or behavior.
Epilepsy often begins in early childhood or adolescence, and diagnosis usually requires an evaluation by a neurologist. Seizure management may involve medication and monitoring.
Gastrointestinal (GI) Issues
Digestive challenges—such as chronic constipation, reflux, or abdominal pain—are commonly reported in children with autism. GI discomfort can affect sleep, appetite, mood, and behavior.
Sometimes, children who have difficulty communicating may act out or withdraw due to physical discomfort they cannot express. Addressing GI issues can have a significant positive impact on behavior and overall well-being.
Sleep Disorders
Sleep problems are very common in autistic children. These may include trouble falling asleep, frequent night wakings, or waking up too early. Poor sleep affects not only the child’s mood and ability to learn but also the whole family’s quality of life.
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and working with healthcare providers can be helpful in managing sleep difficulties.
Depression
Older children, teens, and young adults with autism may be at a higher risk of depression. This is especially true when they struggle with social isolation, bullying, or a lack of emotional support.
Depression in autistic individuals may not always present in typical ways. Symptoms might include withdrawal, irritability, low energy, or changes in appetite or sleep.
Intellectual Disability (ID)
Some children with autism also have an intellectual disability. This means they may experience delays in cognitive functioning and adaptive skills (like communication, self-care, or problem-solving).
It’s important to note that autism and intellectual disability are separate conditions. Not all autistic individuals have ID, and many have average or above-average intelligence.
Some comorbidities may require medical treatment, specialized therapies, or additional evaluations. By addressing the full picture—not just autism—you can help your child feel more comfortable, capable, and understood.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). While autism may include repetitive behaviors or routines, OCD is driven by anxiety and the need to neutralize distressing thoughts.
Differentiating between the two is key, as OCD can greatly interfere with daily functioning if left untreated.
Bipolar Disorder
Though less common in younger children, bipolar disorder can co-occur with autism, especially in adolescence or adulthood. Bipolar disorder involves mood swings between depression and mania, which can look like sudden shifts in energy, irritability, or risk-taking behavior. Proper diagnosis often requires a thorough mental health evaluation.
Tic Disorders and Tourette Syndrome
Tics are sudden, involuntary movements or vocalizations. Children with autism may exhibit motor tics (like blinking or shoulder shrugging) or vocal tics (like throat-clearing or repetitive sounds). Tourette Syndrome is a more complex tic disorder and may co-occur with both autism and ADHD.
Eating and Feeding Disorders
Feeding challenges are common, especially in young autistic children. These may include extreme food selectivity (picky eating), refusal to eat certain textures or colors, or difficulty transitioning to solid foods. Some children may also be at risk for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), which can lead to nutritional concerns.
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)
Also known as dyspraxia, DCD affects a child’s motor planning and coordination. Children with both autism and DCD may struggle with fine motor tasks (like writing or buttoning clothes) or gross motor skills (like running or climbing). This can affect independence and confidence in school and social settings.
Language Disorders
While many children with autism have delayed or atypical language development, some may also meet criteria for a separate language disorder. This includes difficulties with expressive or receptive language that are not entirely explained by autism alone. Support from speech-language pathologists is often helpful in these cases.
Schizophrenia (in adolescents and adults)
Though rare in childhood, schizophrenia can co-occur with autism later in life. Both conditions may involve social withdrawal and unusual thinking, but schizophrenia also includes hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized speech. Early symptoms may be subtle, so close monitoring during adolescence is important.
Why Recognizing Comorbidities Matters
Understanding and identifying comorbid conditions in autism can lead to better support for your child. These diagnoses help medical professionals, therapists, teachers, and families create more accurate and personalized care plans.
Connect n Care ABA offers compassionate, individualized ABA therapy in North Carolina and Virginia. Our expert team understands the complexity of autism and its common comorbidities, and we’re ready to walk this journey with you and your family.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your family every step of the way.
FAQs
What are common comorbidities with autism?
Some of the most common comorbidities include ADHD, anxiety disorders, intellectual disabilities, epilepsy, sleep disorders, and gastrointestinal issues.
Why do comorbidities often occur with autism?
While the exact cause is still being studied, overlapping brain development patterns and genetic factors may contribute to multiple conditions co-occurring.
Can comorbidities affect how autism is treated?
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Sources:

- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8085719/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36841830/
- https://www.chop.edu/news/autism-s-clinical-companions-frequent-comorbidities-asd
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/medical-conditions-associated-autism
- https://autismsciencefoundation.org/cdc-study-finds-95-children-autism-one-comorbidity/
- https://autismspectrumnews.org/the-prevalence-of-comorbidities-in-autism-consideration-of-comorbidity-in-intervention-and-treatment-response/
