Conversations around autism often are often centered on autistic children. Many people may question the prevalence of autism in adults and whether the diagnosis can change over time. Although how autism may present in an individual can change, an individual cannot grow out of autism.
Officially, the Answer Is "No"
But according to the DSM, it is impossible to "grow out" of autism. In fact, if a person with an autism diagnosis does appear to completely outgrow their early symptoms, they were not properly diagnosed.
In fact, children can improve and get better. "We found that nearly 30% of young children have less severe autism symptoms at age 6 than they did at age 3.
Can Level 1 Autism Be Cured? Autism of any level is a lifetime condition; there is currently no known cure. However, it is possible to help autistic individuals achieve a higher quality of life. Early diagnosis and clinical intervention are crucial for the best outcomes.
While there is no cure for autism, some individuals have experienced significant improvement in their symptoms and have been able to lead fulfilling and independent lives. This is often referred to as “recovery” or “remission” from autism.
It's something you're born with. Signs of autism might be noticed when you're very young, or not until you're older. If you're autistic, you're autistic your whole life. Autism is not a medical condition with treatments or a "cure".
Many people may question the prevalence of autism in adults and whether the diagnosis can change over time. Although how autism may present in an individual can change, an individual cannot grow out of autism. “ASD is not an on and off switch,” says Nicole Tetreault, PhD, a neuroscientist and author in Los Angeles.
Autism doesn't get worse with age, but certain symptoms can become more pronounced and problematic as the child grows older and is more challenged.
While autism cannot go away, children can become more independent as they grow up through early intervention. Early intervention plays a significant role in assisting children with autism in developing essential life skills.
In severe cases, an autistic child may never learn to speak or make eye contact. But many children with autism and other autism spectrum disorders are able to live relatively normal lives.
Autism characteristics can change significantly from ages 3 to 11.
When ASD goes untreated, is misdiagnosed, or diagnosis is delayed, negative symptoms associated with the condition may worsen over time. Without adequate support, children may not develop competent skills with regards to learning, speech, or social interactions.
There are other brain disorders that mimic autism symptoms, like ADHD and anxiety disorders, including selective mutism. Autism can be misdiagnosed as another disorder with some shared symptoms.
Older epidemiological studies suggested that the IQ-related spectrum tends to be skewed to the left, i.e., a larger proportion of individuals with ASD have below average intelligence, while only few individuals with ASD may have an IQ above average.
Some believe that autistic people aren't interested in romantic relationships or aren't capable of romantic love. However, this is far from the truth. In fact, autistic people can make wonderful partners.
If you still hear people use some of the older terms, you'll want to know what they mean: Asperger's syndrome. This is on the milder end of the autism spectrum. A person with Asperger's may be very intelligent and able to handle their daily life.
Sensory overload, changes in routine, social isolation, co-occurring conditions, and lack of support can all exacerbate the symptoms of autism. However, with early intervention, therapy, and support, individuals with autism can manage these challenges and improve their quality of life.
Some developmental health professionals refer to PDD-NOS as “subthreshold autism." In other words, it's the diagnosis they use for someone who has some but not all characteristics of autism or who has relatively mild symptoms.
“High-functioning autism” isn't an official medical term or diagnosis. It's an informal one some people use when they talk about people with an autism spectrum disorder who can speak, read, write, and handle basic life skills like eating and getting dressed. They can live independently.
In fact, research has shown that autism symptoms tend to peak around the ages of 2-3 years old. During this time, children with autism may struggle with language development, social interaction, and behavior. They may have difficulty communicating their needs and understanding the needs of others.
Of all the Autism Spectrum Disorders, Borderline Autism is one of the most complex developmental disorders to diagnose.
While level 2 autism cannot be cured, early intervention can lead to a better prognosis and higher quality of life for the autistic individual.
ASD Level 2 – In the mid-range of ASD is Level 2. In this level, individuals require substantial support and have problems that are more readily obvious to others. These issues may be trouble with verbal communication, having very restricted interests, and exhibiting frequent, repetitive behaviors.