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High-Functioning Autism: The Symptoms & What It Means

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Janice

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A significant number of individuals with autism exhibit a high functioning variant of the condition and can often fare well in social situations. However, numerous challenges tied to this condition are often overlooked by neurotypical individuals. What does being on the spectrum entail?

High-functioning autism in females is often difficult to diagnose, but it can be a symptom of autism. It’s important to understand what these symptoms are and how they affect the individual.

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Professionals used many terminology to explain autism spectrum disorder years ago (ASD). They utilized separate boxes for each sort of diagnosis, rather than conceiving of a spectrum that may embrace a broad variety of symptoms of the condition.

Asperger’s syndrome was the name given to high-functioning autism back then. That word is still used by certain individuals.

Autism is still present in those with high-functioning autism. They do, however, have talents and requirements that distinguish them from persons on the other end of the range. Their work options are also diverse.

What Is High-Functioning Autism, and What Does It Mean?

Autism is a blanket term for those who have difficulty with typical social interactions and relationships. This is a symptom that affects people from all walks of life. High-functioning autism, on the other hand, has a few qualities that others don’t.

According to Autism Speaks, persons with high-functioning autism are frequently very clever and have great language abilities. People who are nonverbal, on the other hand, make it difficult to measure their intellect or learning ability. Someone with high-functioning autism, on the other hand, may be able to identify autism and explain how it impacts their lives.

People with high-functioning autism are likely to have the following characteristics:

  • Social connections that are strained. They may not appreciate puns or other subtle types of comedy since nonverbal communication is difficult for them to comprehend.

  • Interests that are restricted. A subject like vehicle engines or astronomy consumes a person’s mind practically constantly, and it’s often a favorite topic of discussion.

  • There are a lot of advantages. A few frequent qualities are attention to detail, perseverance, pattern identification, and extreme concentration.

  • Routine piques my interest. There is a strong demand for consistency and uniformity.

People with high-functioning autism are often portrayed in movies and television programs as “numbers people” with poor social skills and an inclination to create or retain relationships. Firsthand descriptions of living with autism demonstrate how confining that term may be.

Close friends, understanding employers, and devoted love partners are common among persons with high-functioning autism. It is often necessary to have open and honest discussions about preferences and adjustments in order for the parties to work successfully together. Many persons with high-functioning autism find their place in the world pleasantly after that work is completed.

However, many persons with high-functioning autism also suffer from other mental illnesses. Treatment is needed for these comorbid issues so that individuals may learn to manage them and live more balanced lives. Among the most common concerns are:

  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition in which a (ADHD). This is the most prevalent comorbid condition among persons with high-functioning autism, according to researchers. People with ADHD may have difficulty calming their brains so that they can concentrate and study. This might make it difficult for them to completely engage in treatment.

  • Phobia in social situations. People with high-functioning autism may avoid social settings entirely due to relentless taunting, communication difficulties, and a sense of loneliness. According to studies, roughly 30% of persons with high-functioning autism have some kind of social anxiety.

  • Anxiety condition that affects the whole body. Some individuals are constantly apprehensive and agitated, even though they have no idea why. According to experts, roughly 16 percent of persons with high-functioning autism have generalized anxiety disorder.

These comorbid conditions’ symptoms may improve with treatment. However, many persons with high-functioning autism do not get the right diagnosis, and hence do not receive the necessary assistance.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism?

There is no way to diagnose autism or determine a person’s location on the spectrum using a blood test or a brain scan. Professionals, on the other hand, utilize tests and observations to both diagnose autism and decide the best course of action.

A diagnosis of high-functioning autism is appropriate, according to the National Autism Society of the United Kingdom, when they have:

  • Persistent problems in social contact and communication. For someone with high-functioning autism, body language, tone of voice, and innuendo might be perplexing. They may seem insensitive because they are unfamiliar with delicate topics. Alternatively, they may act in ways that others may not consider proper.

  • Patterns of behavior or interests that are restricted and repeated. They may seek solace in routine and try to limit their exposure to strong lights, odors, colors, or temperatures. They may get fixated on a single task and feel most at ease while doing it.

  • Symptoms that restrict and obstruct daily activities. Everyone has at least one oddity. People with high-functioning autism, on the other hand, have serious problems that prevent them from doing what they want.

Interviews with mental health professionals are conducted with the individual, and others might join in the talk if it is suitable. Parents, teachers, and close relatives may have information about children to offer. Adults’ behaviors may be revealed through romantic partners, employers, and friends.

According to the Autism Society, the number of persons diagnosed with high-functioning autism is on the rise. However, it’s unclear if this is due to more awareness and screening, or whether more individuals are getting the illness.

Doctors can make an accurate diagnosis using all of this information. When they do, they may begin counseling.

Is Therapy Necessary?

There is no cure for autism spectrum illness. It’s a bundle of symptoms that lasts a lifetime.

Many persons with high-functioning autism feel that how they think, speak, and behave is an important aspect of their identity. They wonder whether they really need treatment or if the world should be more receptive of their needs.

According to studies, the phrase “high-functioning” does not relate to how much assistance individuals need. Some persons with very high IQs are labeled as high-functioning, yet they nevertheless struggle with daily tasks and need assistance.

Experts say that persons with high-functioning autism, for example, often misinterpret social signs and feel bad about it. They want to connect with people, but they’re not sure how to do it in a genuine, organic way.

According to Autism Speaks, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) may help those with high-functioning autism. Therapists and technologists may assist clients in developing abilities in the following areas:

  • Interactions with others. How do these individuals begin a conversation? What are the reactions of others? With guidance, a youngster may be able to gracefully join and end a discussion.

  • Obsessions. A favorite subject may dominate every discussion for someone with high-functioning autism. Other issues to address might be coached by an ABA practitioner. A therapist might also assist the individual in recognizing and responding to nonverbal indications of boredom or anxiety.

  • Body language is an important aspect of communication. A behavior analyst might teach the client how to establish direct eye contact and shake hands, or explain why these actions aren’t appropriate in specific settings.

These types of therapy sessions might take place at home, in the classroom, or in public places. Clients may practice what they’ve learned between sessions, so the teachings linger a long time.

It is not the intention to alter one’s personality. Rather, therapists and technologists strive to provide their clients with the skills they need to thrive in the world.

Unfortunately, many persons with high-functioning autism do not get such assistance. According to researchers, persons in this situation are considerably more likely to get drugs rather than treatment.

Is it Possible for People with High-Functioning Autism to Succeed in the Workplace?

People with high-functioning autism are outstanding workers because of their intelligence, attention, pattern identification, and other similar characteristics. However, they often need some assistance from their superiors and colleagues in order to succeed.

According to Temple Grandin, those on the upper end of the spectrum typically need to be “so outstanding in a specific subject” that their supervisors will ignore their lack of social skills. For example, a corporation could be ready to employ someone with exceptional computer programming talents despite their reluctance to engage in group brainstorming sessions.

This may seem imaginative or incorrect, yet the facts supports Grandin’s hypothesis. According to studies, over half of all persons with ASD have no paid work or technical experience two years after graduation.

According to the Autism Society, persons with ASD have three categories of career options:

  • Employers provide little help throughout the workplace, making it competitive. Despite the lack of assistance, people may prosper here if their occupations are focused and don’t need a lot of human contact.

  • Employers create systems to assist the employee in succeeding throughout the workplace. The program might include mentors, scheduled work teams, or individual coaching.

  • Sheltered: People are assured employment and get job training and skills while they work.

Each individual with high-functioning autism is unique. Some folks may be able to achieve with less assistance. Others, though, will not.

Grandin advised people to start small and work their way up at a discussion at the Chicago Humanities Festival. They may be able to get an internship and turn it into a job. Maybe they can start as part-time and work their way up to full-time.

Therapists might also be useful in this situation. Roleplaying exercises may help clients perform better in interviews, social engagements, and other situations.

A Promising Future

The majority of persons with high-functioning autism can lead full and independent lives.

Again, just because someone is labeled as high-functioning doesn’t guarantee they will have little or no problems. Individuals with high-functioning autism, on the other hand, are in an excellent position to perform well in treatment.

ABA treatment, in combination with occupational therapy and speech therapy, may help the client concentrate on areas where they may be failing. These interventions are anticipated to have significant long-term benefits for people with high-functioning autism.

References

High-Functioning Autism: The Symptoms & What It Means is a blog post that discusses the symptoms of high-functioning autism. This article also includes information on how to help someone with high-functioning autism. Reference: mild autism symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some signs of high functioning autism?

A: In high functioning autism, the person may have good language skills, they may also struggle with social interactions. They will experience difficulties when it comes to making and keeping friends or understanding emotions in others. However, these people are highly intelligent on average due to their capacity for absorbing knowledge quickly and thinking about abstract concepts at a higher level than those around them.

What are the 3 main symptoms of autism?

A: Some of the common symptoms of autism include difficulty communicating, social difficulties, and unusual or intense reactions to sensory input.

What is the highest level of functioning autism?

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