Five Reasons Why You Might Miss the Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism

Autism spectrum disorder or ASD is usually diagnosed in toddlers to young children. However, in certain cases, some children might be left undiagnosed, especially if they have high-functioning autism. Sometimes, this might extend even until adulthood. 

Here are reasons why such symptoms are missed out. 

Symptoms aren’t apparent

Those with high-functioning autism usually have normal or exceptional intelligence, as such symptoms could be hidden. They might do great in school and communicate well, however, in terms of more abstract concepts, might not excel. Their non-verbal communication might also be slightly affected or they could be masking the symptoms on their own. 

Misdiagnosis

Misdiagnosing autism for another form of mental health disorder is also common. Children with high-functioning autism might be diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder ADD or social anxiety instead of autism. 

A person’s age 

People with high-functioning autism might have been born in an age where there wasn’t enough information about it. Therefore, they did not get the right diagnosis at the time.

Stigma and income

In certain societies, those with high-functioning autism and related behaviours and considered normal, therefore they are not sent in for a diagnosis. Moreover, those with a lower income background do not have access to quality healthcare, and would not expend their income on a child who doesn’t have obvious symptoms of autism. 

Overall, if you suspect that your child has autism, it’s incredibly important to get a professional diagnosis. There are always slight verbal and non-verbal cues that could be a tell-tale sign. 

For more information, reach out to Neuropedia. Call 04 343 1113.