According to the CDC, over 5 million adults in the U.S. are living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism is a lifelong disorder that can impact your social interactions with others, along with your behaviors, interests, and more. Although autism is typically recognized and diagnosed early in one’s life, if you have high-functioning autism (HFA), oftentimes it can be difficult to diagnose. Therefore, many people with high-functioning autism are diagnosed later in life.
If you suspect you or someone you know has high-functioning autism, keep reading to learn what high-functioning autism is and the signs you should look out for. At Carebot ABA, we provide leading behavioral therapy in New Jersey designed to promote self-confidence and foster skills for children on the autism spectrum. We offer various New Jersey children’s therapy programs to give your child the best possible support to achieve their fullest potential.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can best support your child.
High-Functioning Autism: What Is It?
So, what is high-functioning autism?
High-functioning autism is a type of autism that refers to someone who is on the autism spectrum but can still live independently. For example, ASD high-functioning individuals are able to typically read, write, and do other fundamental life skills that are critical to living independently. Because ASD high-functioning individuals can do these fundamental life skills, they usually are able to work and maintain employment.
Even though individuals with high-functioning autism may be able to live independently and carry out fundamental life skills, this doesn’t undermine the many challenges HFA individuals experience because they are on the autism spectrum. From difficulty making close friendships to difficulty with change, there are various struggles anyone on the autism spectrum experiences.
4 Signs of High-Functioning Autism
Below are some signs of high-functioning autism you need to be aware of.
- Difficulty in Social Situations
Individuals with high-functioning autism have difficulty communicating with others and being in social situations. This is because people on the autism spectrum have trouble recognizing certain social cues and body language, which are all important when talking with others. Therefore, if you suspect you or someone you know has high-functioning autism, try to see if they have challenges in social settings and difficulties recognizing social cues.
- Having Obsessive Interests
Another common sign of HFA individuals is they may have obsessive interests or hobbies. This may include a wide range of interests, such as music, gardening, television, or video games. While everyone has hobbies and interests, if you notice someone has a heavy interest or focus on just one or two specific things, this may be a sign they are on the autism spectrum.
- Being Hypersensitive to Certain Senses
Hypersensitivity to certain things, such as lights or sounds, is another common sign that someone may be on the autism spectrum. Because of this hypersensitivity, many individuals can become easily overwhelmed in social settings, especially in new environments that may involve loud noises or bright lights.
- Rigid Routines/Mindset
Many people on the autism spectrum also have rigid thinking, which means that they have difficulty adapting to new situations or changes. Plus, they typically follow strict routines or patterns. If you know someone who struggles immensely with change or adapting to routines that are not their own, they may have high-functioning autism.
Premier Autism Treatment in New Jersey
If you suspect your child may be on the autism spectrum, it’s important you seek support so your child can receive the right care to build confidence and thrive. At Carebot ABA, we offer a range of therapy programs so your child can receive the personalized care they need to reach their fullest potential. From New Jersey ABA therapy to speech therapy, and more, we offer a broad range of treatment approaches to best support your child’s unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can best help your child reach their fullest potential.