Autism is a brain development disorder affecting an individual’s behavioral and communication skills. It has symptoms ranging from mild to severe. It is not uncommon for patients diagnosed with autism to have difficulty engaging with others. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), there are three levels of autism. After learning this information, that could lead many families and caregivers to wonder about autism treatment programs.
Level 1: Least Severe
Understanding the levels of autism also means defining which one needs to least and most support. Because Level 1 is the least severe, that means families and caregivers need the least amount of outside support. However, that does not mean those receiving this diagnosis do not need support at all. When receiving this diagnosis, patients benefit from early intervention for autism.
Symptoms you can expect:
- Activities: Does not have much interest in activities or social events.
- Adapting: If there are changes in behaviors or routines, patients often have difficulty adapting.
- Communication: Might be able to talk to people, but maintaining eye contact or the typical give-and-take during conversations is a challenge.
- Organization: Finds it challenging to make plans or stay organized.
- Socially: Patients have difficulty with socialization, including initiating activities or conversations.
Level 2: Moderately Severe
Level 2 of the levels of autism means symptoms and supports are moderately higher than Level 1. That means the challenges patients face socially could be more noticeable to those around them. That includes verbal and non-verbal communication challenges.
Symptoms you can expect:
- Activities: Has extremely specific or narrowly focused interests.
- Behavior: Their behavioral issues are severe, and to the point that casual observers notice.
- Communication: There is a significant lack of communication skills, both verbal and nonverbal, which might also include overly simplified sentences.
- Coping: Patients have challenges coping with routine or environmental changes.
- Socially: Has reduced or unusual reactions to communication, interactions, or social cues.
Level 3: The Most Severe
Because Level 3 is the most severe out of all of the levels of autism, it requires the most support. Even though many who receive a Level 3 diagnosis speak, some might not communicate with words. Those who receive this diagnosis need a substantial amount of support regarding learning and managing their daily activities.
Symptoms you can expect:
- Behavior: Those receiving a Level 3 diagnosis find it difficult to change their behaviors.
- Communication: Peers and other observers notice a substantial lack of communication skills, both verbal and nonverbal.
- Coping: Patients have a significant amount of trouble coping with unexpected environmental or routine changes.
- Focus: It is extremely difficult or distressful when they must change their attention or focus.
- Socially: Patients have a little to no desire to engage or participate in social interactions or activities.
Outlooks for the Levels of Autism
Those who receive a Level 1 diagnosis require little support and can maintain a high quality of life. The support they receive is often in the form of therapy. If patients receive a Level 2 diagnosis, that means they need a moderately higher level of support. That includes helping them adjust to environmental changes and sensory issues. When patients receive a Level 3 diagnosis, that means they require a substantial amount of services and support. There are also instances where medication is beneficial to patients, as well as the use of a full-time caregiver.
Final Thoughts
When searching for more information about the levels of autism, that could spark questions regarding treatments and support. No one should have to navigate through these questions and concerns without help. Contact your local autism treatment center today to learn more about treatment options and the support available to you.
