First and foremost, high functioning autism is not a medical diagnosis. It is a commonly used term to refer to individuals with autism who are relatively independent in day-to-day activities.
In the past, individuals with Asperger’s syndrome were called those with high functioning autism. Asperger’s is marked by a general language delay. These individuals have fewer language issues and other tell-tale signs of autism. However, in the current classification of autism by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), all forms of autism including Asperger’s are known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
Levels of ASD
Depending on the severity of symptoms, ASD has been categorised into three levels by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5).
Level 1 ASD: When individuals can live an independent life with enough communication skills, although may need support due to difficulty in social skills. It is considered as a mild form of autism.
Level 2 ASD: When individuals have significant communication problems and may have obvious repetitive behaviours. They require substantial support.
Level 3 ASD: Such individuals possess limited ability to interact socially and require substantial support and accommodations for day-to-day activities.
High functioning autism may be considered as individuals with Level 1 ASD.
Different forms of therapy can help individuals with autism, including those with high functioning autism, such as
-Occupational therapy
-Sensory integration therapy
-Speech therapy
-Behavioural therapy
To reiterate, high functioning autism is not an official diagnosis, and it is better to consider individuals diagnosed with autism to be part of the autism spectrum.