Living as a neurodiverse individual often involves challenges that extend beyond the mind. For many, physical health conditions occur alongside neurodiverse mental health conditions diagnoses such as autism, ADHD, or OCD. At The Atypical View, we recognize that these overlapping experiences are not only common but also deeply impactful.
Research on Neurodivergence and Comorbid Conditions
A growing body of research shows that neurodiverse individuals experience higher rates of physical health challenges compared to the general population.
For example:
- In a Swedish population study, ADHD was linked to increased risk of conditions ranging from sleep disorders to metabolic disease (Langeveld et al., 2021)
- A general population study in Germany with over 4,000 participants found that individuals with either full OCD or subthreshold OCD reported higher prevalence of migraine headaches, respiratory illnesses, allergies, and thyroid conditions (Beesdo-Baum et al., 2014).
- A UK study found increased rates of chronic physical health conditions across all organ systems in autistic individuals, additionally noting EDS (Ehlers Danlos Syndrome) is more likely to occur among autistic females compared to non-autistic females (Ward, et al., 2023). As an autistic individual with EDS, this hit home.
These studies highlight that neurodiverse individuals often carry an added physical burden that is frequently misunderstood. When you add on the layers of late diagnosed individuals who have gone their whole lives with little answers, the combination of these comorbidities may hit twice as hard going so long without support. Therapy and coaching can help make sense of these overlaps, but awareness is the first step.
The RCCX Gene Theory
One emerging theory attempts to explain why neurodiverse individuals may be more prone to complex comorbid conditions. The RCCX Genetic Module Theory suggests that mutations in a cluster of genes located on chromosome 6 could predispose people to both psychiatric and physical health conditions.
The RCCX region has been linked to conditions such as:
- Connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
- Histamine Intolerance as seen in conditions like MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome)
- Dysautonomia conditions such as POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia)
- Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia
- Autoimmune and hormonal issues such as Hashimotos
This long list goes on far beyond what could be documented in one blog. While the evidence is still developing, this theory provides a possible genetic explanation for why conditions like ADHD, autism, OCD and more often coincide with chronic pain, fatigue, or other physical symptoms. It suggests the reality that neurodiversity is not limited to the brain but can affect the whole body. More research is needed to confirm these findings, but they represent a promising avenue for understanding the depth of neurodivergent health experiences.
Carrying Invisible Weight
For many late diagnosed individuals, the overlap of neurodiverse traits with physical health conditions creates a compounded sense of disability. It is not uncommon to hear dismissive statements like “you are too young to be in pain” or “just wait until you’re my age.” These messages add layers of shame and invalidate very real experiences.
Living with both neurodiverse needs and chronic medical conditions often means carrying an invisible weight. This can lead to:
- Reduced energy, brain fog, and more frequent burnout
- Increased difficulty in academic or workplace settings
- Social isolation due to misunderstanding of invisible illness
- Emotional strain from navigating multiple systems of care with frequent dismissal
When it comes to therapy and coaching, we must address these realities directly. Supporting neurodiverse individuals means validating their physical health challenges, advocating for accessible care, and encouraging authenticity rather than shame. By expanding awareness and embracing neurodiverse perspectives, we create space for healing, resilience, and empowerment.
References:
- Du Rietz, E., Kuja-Halkola, R., Brikell, I., Jangmo, A., Sariaslan, A., Lichtenstein, P., D’Onofrio, B. M., Chang, Z., & Larsson, H. (2021). Mapping phenotypic and aetiological associations between ADHD and physical conditions in adulthood in Sweden: A genetically informed register study. The Lancet Psychiatry, 8(9), 774–783. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(21)00171-1
- Witthauer, C., Gloster, A. T., Meyer, A. H., & Lieb, R. (2014). Physical diseases among persons with obsessive compulsive symptoms and disorder: A general population study. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 49(12), 2013–2022. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-014-0895-z
- Ward, J. H., Weir, E., Allison, C., Baron-Cohen, S., & Brugha, T. S. (2023). Increased rates of chronic physical health conditions across all organ systems in autistic adolescents and adults. Molecular Autism, 14(1), 35. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13229-023-00565-2
- MEpedia. (n.d.). RCCX genetic module theory. MEpedia. Retrieved October 1, 2025, from https://me-pedia.org/wiki/RCCX_Genetic_Module_Theory
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