Untangling the Puzzle: Why Your Child Might Be Facing More Than One Challenge—and Why Evaluation Matters

Reviewed by Taylor Agate, PhD, Neuropsychology Post-Doctoral Fellow

As parents, we know our children best. We notice the moments they shine—and the moments they struggle. Maybe your child has trouble focusing in school, but they also seem anxious around other kids. Or perhaps they’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, but you’re still noticing difficulties with reading, writing, or managing big feelings.

This is where the concept of comorbidity comes in—and understanding it can be a game changer.

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.

When we don’t recognize comorbid conditions, interventions may not work as well—or may not work at all.

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

These evaluations involve structured testing, observations, and input from parents/caregivers and teachers. They help untangle what’s going on—where your child is struggling, where they’re thriving, and how to support them best.

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.

You are your child’s best advocate. Asking questions, seeking evaluations, and collaborating with professionals is one of the most powerful ways you can support your child.

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)

You’ll also receive ideas on how to better connect with and support your child—not just academically but emotionally.

Final Thoughts

If your child has already been diagnosed with one condition but you’re still seeing challenges—or if you’re simply wondering whether something more might be going on—trust your instincts. A thorough evaluation can provide clarity, direction, and hope.

Understanding comorbidity isn’t just about labeling—it’s about listening. And when we truly listen to what’s going on beneath the surface, we can help children thrive and meet their full potential. 

We Are Here to Help

At Sasco River Center, we specialize comprehensive neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults in Fairfield County, Connecticut, including Westport, Darien, Wilton, Fairfield, Greenwich, and surrounding areas such as Westchester County.

If your child is struggling, don’t wait—early intervention can make all the difference and increasing your understanding of your child’s profile is immensely helpful. We are here to help; contact us today!