What is Comorbidity?
In child development, comorbidity means that a child may have more than one condition or challenge at the same time. For example, it’s very common for a child with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) to also experience anxiety, learning differences like dyslexia, or challenges with emotion regulation. These overlapping issues aren’t unusual—research shows that many children with one diagnosis often have at least one more. But here's the tricky part: the symptoms can blend together, making it hard to know what’s really going on.Why It Matters
Understanding all the pieces of the puzzle is important for one big reason: supporting your child effectively. If we only focus on one piece (like attention), we might miss something else (like reading difficulties or social anxiety) that’s also holding your child back. For example:- A child with ADHD might be inattentive in class, but anxiety might also be making it hard for them to concentrate.
- A child with language delays might act out during group work because they’re struggling to understand directions, but they might also have a specific learning disorder that makes it difficult for them to learn, creating further frustration.
- A child with autism might also have ADHD, requiring support for both social skills and attention.
The Power of A Comprehensive Evaluation
An evaluation looks at all aspects of a child’s functioning—not just behavior, but also:- Cognition (thinking and reasoning skills)
- Academic skills (reading, writing, math)
- Language
- Executive function (planning, organizing, regulating behavior)
- Fine motor skills
- Social-emotional functioning
- Family and medical history
What Parents Should Know
- You didn’t miss anything. Comorbidity can be subtle. Sometimes, one issue masks another. You're not alone, and you're not too late.
- Diagnosis doesn’t define your child. It simply opens the door to better understanding, tools, and supports.
- Early intervention makes a big difference. The earlier we identify a child’s unique profile, the sooner we can provide what they need to feel confident and capable.
What Do I Do With The Results?
Once you have the report, you’re not left alone to interpret it. Your clinician will walk you through:- Strengths and weaknesses in your child’s learning profile
- Any diagnoses (such as ADHD, dyslexia, or an anxiety disorder)
- Personalized recommendations for school and home
- Suggested accommodations (like extra time on tests, breaks, or specialized instruction)
- Next steps, which might include academic tutoring, therapy, or a school support plan (like an IEP or 504 Plan)