Many people have heard of autism but may not understand exactly what it is or the many forms it can present itself. One form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is mild autism.

This type of ASD manifests akin traits to those found on the moderate-to-severe end of the spectrum but appears differently and does not interfere with daily life in extreme ways like their more severe counterparts.

In this blog post, we will focus on what mild autism looks like and how it differs from other types of ASD. We'll explore symptoms, misperceptions, and tips for supporting individuals living with mild autism in everyday life.

Understanding Mild Autism

Mild autism is a form of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) that manifests in similar traits to other forms of ASD but does not interfere with daily life as severely. Individuals with mild autism may experience difficulty in social settings or have unique interests or behaviors. However, it's important to note that the severity and manifestation of these symptoms can vary greatly from person to person.

Mild Autism Symptoms in Children

• Difficulty making friends, understanding social cues, or initiating conversation with peers.
• Stimming (repetitive movements) or other repetitive actions to regulate emotion.
• A heightened response to certain textures, smells, tastes, and sounds.
• Being thrown off by changes in their daily schedule or expectations from those around them.
• Struggles to express themselves verbally, often using short sentences and needing help understanding nonverbal cues such as facial expressions and body language.
• Unique preoccupations or obsessions over specific topics like trains, numbers, letters, etc.
• Refusal to consider alternative ideas or opinions, even when presented with evidence to the contrary.
• Reacting differently to different situations than their peers or having difficulty understanding social cues in response to situations.
• Flapping hands, rocking back and forth, spinning objects, etc.

Mild Autism Symptoms in Adults

• Difficulty making decisions, especially in social situations.
• Having difficulty understanding the emotions and feelings of those around them.
• Stimming (repetitive movements) or other repetitive behaviors to regulate emotion.
• Increased sensitivity to certain sounds, smells, tastes, and textures.
• Being thrown off by changes in the daily schedule or expectations from those around them.
• They have trouble expressing themselves verbally, often choosing short sentences and having difficulty understanding nonverbal cues such as facial expressions and body language.
• Unique preoccupations or obsessions over specific topics like trains, numbers, letters, etc.
• Refusal to consider alternative ideas or opinions even when presented with evidence to the contrary.
• Reacting differently to different situations than their peers or having difficulty understanding social cues in response to situations.
• Flapping hands, rocking back and forth, spinning objects, etc.

Characteristics of Mild Autism

1. Mild autism is characterized by a milder presentation of the same core features seen in other forms of ASD.

2. Individuals with mild autism may experience difficulty in social settings or have unique interests or behaviors.

3. Symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, and even between individuals with similar levels of Autism severity.

4. Difficulty making friends, understanding social cues, or initiating conversation with peers is common in individuals with mild autism.

5. Stimming (repetitive movements) or other repetitive actions to regulate emotion are common characteristics of mild autism.

6. A heightened response to certain textures, smells, tastes, and sounds is often present in those with mild autism spectrum disorder.

7. Struggles to express themselves verbally, often using short sentences and having difficulty understanding nonverbal cues such as facial expressions and body language are common

Why Mild Autism May Go Undiagnosed

Mild autism can often go undiagnosed because its effects don’t interfere with daily life in extreme ways like more severe forms of ASD do. It is difficult to recognize the signs and symptoms of mild autism as they may not be as obvious or noticeable.

Furthermore, people with mild autism can often “mask” their difficulties due to their familiarity with social norms and expectations. Without proper testing or diagnosis, mild autism can remain unrecognized for years, even into adulthood, resulting in missed opportunities for treatment or support.

Masking and Coping Skills

Those with mild autism often display “masking” behavior to appear to keep up with their peers and social norms. This masking can be intentional or unconscious and may include avoiding eye contact, speaking monotonously, or using gestures instead of words.

Other coping skills used by those living with mild autism spectrum disorder (ASD) might include mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or guided imagery and sensory items like weighted blankets or fidgets. These tactics help individuals manage difficult emotions and navigate social situations that would otherwise be too overwhelming.

Differences Between Mild and Severe Forms of Autism

Mild autism is considered a form of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), just like more severe forms, but how it manifests and impacts daily life varies greatly from individual to individual.

For example, individuals with mild autism may have difficulty in social settings or have unique interests or behaviors, whereas those on the severe end of the spectrum may have extreme difficulty with communication and socialization. Additionally, those living with mild autism often don’t need as much support as their peers who live with more severe forms of ASD.

Mild Autism Treatment

Treatments for Children

Treatment for children with mild autism spectrum disorder (ASD) usually involves a combination of therapies, including specialized educational programs to help them develop socially and make sense of the world around them.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of the most common forms of treatment, focusing on modifying behaviors and teaching new skills through positive reinforcement. ABA therapy can be delivered in various settings, such as the home, school, or clinic, and often includes social skills training to help individuals better understand their emotions and those around them.

Speech-language therapy is another form of treatment that helps children learn how to communicate more effectively by developing communication strategies and improving verbal expression. Additionally, Occupational therapy can help children with mild autism improve their fine motor skills and sensory processing and teach them how to better manage everyday tasks such as dressing or feeding themselves.

Treatments for Adults

Treatment for adults with mild autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often includes a combination of therapies tailored to address specific issues and improve quality of life.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one form of treatment that can help individuals identify and modify unhelpful behavior patterns and develop strategies to better cope with stress or anxiety.

Additionally, social skills training is often used to teach adults how to interact more effectively in social situations, while occupational therapy can help them better manage everyday tasks and learn new ways to do things they may find difficult or overwhelming.

FAQs

Can mild autism be corrected?

No, mild autism is a lifelong condition that cannot be “cured”. However, with the right interventions and support, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.

Is it possible to be slightly autistic?

Yes, mild autism is considered a form of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) characterized by a milder presentation of the same core features seen in other forms of ASD. Symptoms and severity can vary greatly from person to person.

Can an autistic child be normal?

People with mild autism can live full and normal lives with the right interventions and support. While they may experience unique challenges or difficulties, individuals can still lead productive and rewarding lives as they learn to manage their symptoms.

Conclusion

Mild autism presents itself differently from other forms of ASD and is often difficult to recognize without proper assessment or diagnosis. Those with mild autism often experience difficulty making friends, understanding social cues, or initiating conversation but can still lead a full and rewarding life with the right support.