You may have come across the term ‘high-level functioning autism’ and wondered how this is different from autism. If you’re feeling confused by the terminology, you are not alone. This is because they are in fact the same condition. High functioning autism is autism, however ‘high functioning’ is a description of their adaptive behaviours. Those with autism or high functioning autism are all ‘on the spectrum’.
Individuals with autism often struggle with cognitive flexibility (CF), which often exhibits itself as repetitive behaviours and is more likely to exist for those with additional learning disabilities. By contrast, individuals with high-functioning autism tend to have above-average intelligence, fairly good communication skills, and manage better externally than other autistic people.
So while individuals with high-level functioning autism share the same core challenges with other autistic individuals, they are better at masking their autistic traits. This often leads to a late autism diagnosis, especially in women, where autism often goes unnoticed or is misattributed to other conditions.
In this article, we explore high-functioning autism coping strategies that individuals can benefit from.
1. What Is High-Functioning Autism?
High-level functioning autism is used to describe autistic individuals who typically haven’t experienced delayed developmental milestones and can function independently, often performing well on cognitive tasks. They are usually adept at verbal communication, sometimes demonstrate exceptional skill at problem solving and often have great memory. However, on the inside they mask their challenges in other areas, like their struggle in regulating emotions, reading social cues and sensory processing issues.
Although the term high-level functioning autism is used widely, it’s not officially recognised terminology in the ICD-11 so should not be used as an official diagnostic label. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the generally accepted term used to describe individuals across the entire autism spectrum.
2. Common Features
People with ASD exhibit autistic traits differently, even though they share commonalities. However, people with high-functioning autism seem to cope with their difficulties and challenges better. This is because they use coping strategies, such as camouflaging and performing in varying degrees.
Even though that is the case, they can struggle with tasks such as organising, planning and often experience autistic burnout due to sensory overload. Although they have good communication skills, they still find it difficult to manage relationships, engage in small talk or read social cues.
A formal diagnostic assessment at Connect to Autism can help individuals with high-level functioning autism understand and manage their lives better. This can pave the way to better access to support services and workplace accommodation and the promotion of well being.
To know more, get in touch or call 07958 449402 today.
3. Strengths and Abilities
It’s a genetic mystery as to why some people develop autism and why others don’t. But we do know that people with high-functioning autism often display exceptional strengths and abilities. This includes the ability to be focused and detail oriented, strong memory functions, in-depth knowledge in topics of interest and a unique approach to problem solving.
However, these abilities are often overlooked because of their struggle in other areas, like social difficulties and the need for routine. With an autism diagnostic assessment, individuals with high-level functioning autism have a chance to receive the right kind of support and to understand themselves better.
This helps them and their carers to create an environment that is conducive to the growth of their strengths and abilities, helping them thrive.
4. Coping Strategies and Support
Today, with a wide range of government-led autism initiatives and autism advocacy groups, people with high-functioning autism can sometimes access support services. These can include workplace accommodations like working remotely or having flexible work hours, as well as relaxed rules like extra time for exams at university.
Aside from inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals, individuals with high-level functioning autism will also benefit from therapeutic interventions. This could range from CBT, counselling, occupational therapy and more.
Since individuals with high-level functioning autism often struggle with social relationships, they need to be able to share their experiences and express their emotions freely. Connecting with local peer support groups or other individuals with autism can be helpful in this regard.
To Learn More About High-Level Functioning Autism, Contact Connect To Autism
Now that you know all about high-level functioning autism, would you like to learn more about diagnostic assessments and treatments for autism in adults?
At Connect To Autism, I provide online autism diagnostic and ADHD screening assessments for adults aged 16 and over. With over 25 years of experience in autism assessments, my private online assessment services have helped countless individuals with ASD in the UK.
These assessments include comprehensive evaluations and detailed reports. This results in an enhanced self-understanding of specific issues and the ability to develop effective, coping strategies for emotional and psychological well-being.
To know more about my autism diagnosis and assessment services or to book a free 30-minute consultation, get in touch today.