High-functioning autism is a topic that has garnered much attention and curiosity in recent years. As more people become aware of the autism spectrum and its many nuances, it is essential to understand what high-functioning autism means and how it affects individuals who are diagnosed with it. In our guide, we explore the definition of high-functioning autism, its unique characteristics, and the ways to support people with this diagnosis.
Whether you or your loved one was recently diagnosed with high-functioning autism or you simply wish to learn more about this subject, we are here to help. Our guide will take you through the symptoms of high-functioning autism and the benefits and challenges associated with it, as well as treatment and support options available today. We hope that this information will help you better understand high-functioning autism and spread awareness about it.
Table of Contents
- What Is High-Functioning Autism
- Characteristics of High-Functioning Autism
- Diagnosing High-Functioning Autism
- Supporting Individuals With High-Functioning Autism
- Benefits and Challenges of High-Functioning Autism
- FAQs About High-Functioning Autism
- Embracing Neurodiversity
What Is High-Functioning Autism?
“High-functioning autism” is not an official medical term—instead, it is a colloquial way to describe people diagnosed with autism who can function in their day-to-day lives without significant obstacles. People with high-functioning autism typically have average or above-average intelligence but may still struggle with a variety of symptoms associated with autism.
Until 2013, people with high-functioning autism were diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome—a condition named after an Austrian doctor, Hans Asperger. In 2013, Asperger’s syndrome was removed from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), and people with this condition were recognized as part of the autism spectrum.
Characteristics of High-Functioning Autism
Symptoms of high-functioning autism may differ from one person to another; however, there are a few common signs you can look out for:
- Difficulty With Communication: Even people with high-functioning autism may struggle with social interactions. People on the autism spectrum may have a unique speech pattern, avoid eye contact, have trouble understanding social cues, and struggle to build friendships.
- Sensitivity to Sensory Input: Autism is often associated with sensitivity to lights, sounds, and smells. A person with autism may feel overwhelmed and uncomfortable in a loud environment or when they are exposed to certain sensations, such as the fabric of their clothes or the food they eat.
- Delayed Motor Skills: Children with high-functioning autism may be late to meet certain milestones, such as learning to walk or ride a bike. In addition to that, people with autism may struggle with coordination and have poor handwriting.
- Reliance on Routines: It is not unusual for autistic people to prefer sticking to the schedule and getting upset when their routine is changed. This is why it is so important to let a person with autism know in advance if there are any changes to their usual way of doing things.
Diagnosing High-Functioning Autism
If you suspect that you or your family member may have high-functioning autism, it is important to reach out to a mental health professional who will be able to diagnose the condition. There is no single test to determine whether a person is on the autism spectrum—instead, a doctor or a therapist will analyze the behavior of the patient, talk to their parents or caregivers, and possibly assign an intelligence test to understand the thought process of the individual.
In most cases, autism is diagnosed in childhood—parents can notice the signs of autism in their kids when they are two or three years old. However, sometimes high-functioning autism is not that obvious, and the diagnosis is missed—you may only realize you have autism when you are a teen or an adult.
Supporting Individuals With High-Functioning Autism
Fortunately, nowadays there are many ways to help a person with high-functioning autism cope with the challenges associated with this condition and let them thrive. Here are a few treatment options you can consider:
- Therapy: Many types of therapy can be beneficial for a person with high-functioning autism. For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapy can help an autistic individual to understand their negative emotions and thoughts and come up with strategies to deal with them, while speech therapy will be useful to address communication difficulties.
- Medication: While there are no pills to “cure” autism, some medications can be prescribed to deal with the symptoms of this condition. If autism makes a person anxious and depressed, you can talk to the doctor and get a prescription for antidepressants. Moreover, there are medications to help people with autism and ADHD (these two conditions are often diagnosed together) to improve their focus and concentration.
- Support Groups: It might be valuable for a person with autism to share their experiences with people who can relate to them. These days, you can join a support group in your area or find an online community of autistic people and their caregivers to get and give advice in a safe environment.
Benefits and Challenges of High-Functioning Autism
Like any condition on the autism spectrum disorder (ASD), high-functioning autism comes with both advantages and drawbacks.
On one hand, people with high-functioning autism are often highly intelligent and creative. It is not uncommon for autistic people to excel in art, math, and sciences—their unique way of thinking allows them to come up with solutions neurotypical people do not see. Many employers these days recognize the value of hiring autistic individuals who can offer their creativity and problem-solving skills.
On the other hand, there are still many misconceptions and stigmas related to autism. A person with high-functioning autism may struggle to fit in—their social skills might be lacking, they can be bullied for being different, and their sensitivity to the environment can make their life uncomfortable.
FAQs
What is high-functioning autism?
“High-functioning autism” is a term used to describe autistic people who have an IQ that is average or above average. People with high-functioning autism may still struggle with communication and sensory issues, but they are often able to take care of themselves.
What are the symptoms of high-functioning autism?
The most common signs of high-functioning autism are the inability to speak or maintain a conversation, sensitivity to lights and sounds, poor coordination, and reliance on routines. Remember that the symptoms of autism are unique for every individual.
How is high-functioning autism diagnosed?
There is no medical or blood test to diagnose autism—a mental health provider will have to speak to the patient and their caregivers, observe their behavior, and possibly administer a few tests to understand whether the person is on the autism spectrum.
Can you treat high-functioning autism?
There is no cure for autism yet, but there are plenty of ways to manage high-functioning autism. You can enroll in therapy classes that focus on medication that helps you to control your emotions, and join a support group to share your experiences with like-minded
