I don't know where I sit with this. I don't like when those thought to have "level 1" or "high functioning" autism are considered mild. It takes away from our difficulties and suggests we don't need support when we really do.
However, I'm very aware there are individuals with autism who require a significant level of full time support. They deserve the support and understanding they need.
I do worry where this categorising would end if we start splitting the spectrum up more than it already is being though. I also worry that going in this direction will even further reduce the support for those of us that are deemed to function and it's already almost non existent.
The spectrum is complex. I'm not sure what the answer is.
I agree - I hate when new diagnosed use those terms which I'm thinking their assessors are not diagnosing correctly: it's liek saying you're a bit Autistic
We mask our struggles. For many from the outside we have a normal life, some might view us of having a good "normal" life but they don't see what we think and feel and have to cope with day to day, we mask and even if we can or when we try to explain, they (NTs) just can't understand what we are trying to say.
Which then explains why I'm like many Autistics have great problems with DWP on PIP applications: yes I have a job, I can drive , gosh I can even answer your questions on the phone and yes I managed to fill all your forms in myself. But that doesn't make a meaningful life, all the compensation and avoidance I do to get through every day + week
I think it's fair to say autism makes life for all autistic people more difficult, but also that there are some who are much more profoundly affected by the condition.
Suppose the question is whether the spectrum needs splitting, and if so for what purpose - how will it help? Who will it harm? I don't have the answers.
I think it's fair to say autism makes life for all autistic people more difficult, but also that there are some who are much more profoundly affected by the condition.
Suppose the question is whether the spectrum needs splitting, and if so for what purpose - how will it help? Who will it harm? I don't have the answers.
Will it also cause people to make assumptions about non verbal autistics. Some are intelligent and have plenty to say, they just don't say it in words. I know the suggestion in that article for there to be a low iq score but I don't know how accurate iq tests are in such circumstances. Just another thing to be considered.
