Level 1 Autism: Understanding the Experiences, Challenges, and Strengths of Neurodivergent Individuals

Level 1 autism (also less affirmingly referred to as ASD level 1) is one of the three levels of autism as laid out in the DSM-V. While levels of autism are not necessarily clear-cut definitions of how autistic people experience the world and how much support they need, in general, level one autistic folks require less support than level two and three autistic folks, but they still experience challenges and disability. Level 1 autism was widely referred to as “high-functioning” in the past and sometimes still today, even though functioning labels are outdated and damaging to the autistic community as a whole, along with “disorder” language, such as ASD level 1. While the level system isn’t perfect, it is far more accurate, beneficial, and helpful than functioning labels. Read our blog on “high-functioning” or high masking autism in females. Typically, level 1 autistic people present in ways that allow them to meet everyday demands independently. However, this does not mean their life is without disability, challenges, or complexities. In order to understand the autistic community as a whole, it is important to understand the differences between the levels and how to best support individuals’ unique needs. To begin, this article focuses on level 1 autism. 
 

Defining Level 1 Autism

Level 1 autism, as defined in neurodiversity-focused spaces, is often associated with people who may not require constant support but still experience notable challenges in social communication, sensory regulation, and day-to-day life. For these individuals, navigating interactions, routines, expectations, and environments that feel overwhelming without support can be exhausting and disabling. 
 

1. Social Nuances and Communication: Level 1 autistic people often encounter social situations that feel complex, nuanced, or challenging to interpret because the expectation is that they just blend into society. Reading between the lines, interpreting body language, or understanding indirect communication cues may be difficult. They might take language literally, which can lead to misunderstandings in daily exchanges. Social challenges may be further misunderstood by others because level 1 autistic people tend to camouflage or mask their autistic traits. Allistic people don’t expect social interactions and communication to be challenging for level 1 autistic people because they don’t realize just how internally confusing and dysregulating the interactions are for the autistic person. In my personal experience, people have thought I was being rude or intentionally pretending to misunderstand them because they genuinely could not believe that I’m autistic. However, not “appearing autistic” doesn’t mean that someone isn’t autistic; it just means we’re masking. 
    

2. Routine and Predictability: Routines can provide a significant sense of security, allowing Level 1 autistic people to feel a sense of control in what can often feel like a chaotic world. For us, even small, unplanned changes like a meeting being rescheduled or an unexpected social event can induce stress or anxiety. This can also be misunderstood by others when they don’t realize that we’re autistic or they don’t realize that just because we’re level 1 doesn’t mean we’re not still very dysregulated by routine disruptions and change. Similar to social challenges, level 1 autistic people may be able to mask just how much change bothers us, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t experiencing extreme internal distress. Or, as is especially the case with AuDHD, we may have a need for routine but struggle to maintain them. 
    

3. Sensory Sensitivities: Sensory processing challenges are common for all autistic people. Level 1 autistic people, like autistic people of any level, experience heightened sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells, or textures that others don’t notice or find distressing. Fluorescent lights, crowded spaces, or unexpected loud noises can be especially overwhelming. Accommodations to help regulate these sensitivities, such as creating quiet spaces or reducing intense sensory input, can make a tremendous difference. 
    

4. Autistic Hyperfixation and Special Interests: Many Level 1 autistic people experience deep, immersive interests. These passions can lead to specialized skills and intense knowledge in a particular field. When allowed to explore these interests, Level 1 autistic people can experience profound satisfaction, purpose, and even career success. However, these special interests can cause challenges at times due to spending more time on the interest than on things that need to get done. Others may not understand the way our brain works surrounding interests, which can further feelings of being misunderstood. 
    

The Complexities of Masking and the Challenge of Labels

A common experience and challenge for many level 1 autistic people is the concept of “masking.” Masking involves hiding or suppressing autistic traits in order to blend in with neurotypical peers, often resulting in a significant drain on mental and emotional resources. Many level 1 autistic people learn to mask at a young age, especially if diagnosed later in life, by mimicking behaviors, forcing eye contact, suppressing stims, and more. While these actions may make social interactions easier in the short term, long-term masking can lead to burnout, heightened anxiety, and a diminished sense of self.

The label “high-functioning,” sometimes associated with level 1 autism, can also add pressure, as it implies that they should be able to handle challenges independently. This can lead to unrealistic expectations from others, and it may discourage these individuals from seeking the support they need. Across the board, functioning labels are harmful to the autistic community because the label “high-functioning” insinuates that the person does not require support while the term “low-functioning” insinuates that the person should not have autonomy. In reality, level 1 autistic people do require support and accommodations, no matter how “high-functioning” they may seem on the outside. Personally, when I was working an in-person 9 to 5 job, I appeared relatively “high-functioning” while I was at work. Some of my coworkers saw me struggle from time to time, but no one could have guessed just how much I was suffering in every other area of my life. I could not cook for myself, eat anything other than safe foods, exercise, sleep, watch tv, read, engage in any interests, or pretty much anything else. The people who would consider me “high-functioning” because I was working at that job didn’t see the ways I most certainly was not functioning outside of the job. Now, I recognize that I cannot work a job like that. And, this is just part of the reason why functioning labels are harmful. 

Masking is particularly prevalent among late-diagnosed people, including many women, gender-nonconforming, or genderqueer individuals who are often misdiagnosed or overlooked due to societal stereotypes. The experience of masking, however, comes at a cost. As a society, embracing and understanding neurodiversity can reduce the need for masking and promote an environment where everyone can express themselves authentically.
 

Supporting Level 1 Autistic People: Creating Inclusive Environments

Creating environments where level 1 autistic people can thrive requires understanding the specific sensory, social, and structural needs that support their comfort and ability to function.
 

1. Sensory Accommodations: Sensory-friendly environments such as dimmed lighting, access to noise-canceling headphones, or quiet spaces can greatly reduce sensory overload. These simple accommodations allow level 1 autistic individuals to participate more fully in daily activities. 
    

2. Routine and Structure: Predictable schedules and routines help individuals manage their energy and mental health. For example, workplaces and schools can support level 1 autistic people by providing regular updates in advance of any changes to their routine.
    

3. Clear and Direct Communication: Rather than relying on implied meanings or subtle cues, direct communication can make a huge difference. Level 1 autistic people are more likely to understand and respond to straightforward communication, which can ease social interactions and reduce miscommunication.
    

4. Opportunities for Self-Advocacy: Encouraging self-advocacy empowers individuals to communicate their needs confidently. This could mean discussing sensory needs with a manager or teacher, asking for additional time for tasks, or setting boundaries around social expectations.
    

Employment and Education

Level 1 autistic individuals bring a variety of valuable strengths to workplaces and educational settings, such as attention to detail, focus, creative problem-solving, and specialized knowledge. With neurodiversity-friendly accommodations, they can excel in their roles. However, standard workplaces and classrooms may overlook or misunderstand their needs or even invalidate the need for accommodations.
 

1. Flexible Work Schedules: Traditional 9-to-5 routines are not ideal for many level 1 autistic individuals, as we can experience burnout faster due to sensory or social fatigue. Allowing flexible hours or remote work can help reduce stress and allow for productivity that aligns with their natural rhythms. 
    

2. Inclusive Training: Educating teams and classmates on neurodiversity can promote empathy and create more inclusive environments. A better understanding of how to communicate, give feedback, or work alongside neurodivergent peers benefits everyone and reduces stigma. It also decreases the likelihood of coworkers judging the autistic person or being angry that they’re receiving “special treatment.” If it was common understanding that autistic people need these accommodations in order to function, rather than them being viewed as special treatment, prejudice and judgment would decrease and empathy and understanding would increase. 
    

3. Task-Specific Supports: Many level 1 autistic individuals excel in tasks requiring focus, analysis, or creativity. Allowing them to work in environments that match their strengths, whether that’s in quiet settings, in small teams, or with flexible deadlines, can greatly enhance their contributions.
    

Empowering Self-Advocacy and Self-Care

Self-advocacy is important for all autistic individuals, but level 1 autistic people can feel especially empowered by learning about their neurotype, what they need, and how to advocate for themselves. By learning to identify and communicate their needs, they can establish boundaries, advocate for their comfort, and take proactive steps to reduce stress. 
 

1. Recognizing and Articulating Needs: Self-awareness practices, like journaling or working with a neurodiversity-affirming therapist or coach, can help individuals learn to understand their preferences and sensitivities. Knowing what triggers stress or overstimulation allows them to communicate these needs with clarity and confidence.
    

2. Creating a Support System: Finding a community of supportive friends, family, or groups who understand and accept neurodivergence is invaluable. Connection with others who embrace neurodiversity can provide emotional support, reduce isolation, and promote belonging.
    

3. Routine for Mental Health: Establishing a daily routine that includes sensory-friendly environments, downtime, and personal interests can create stability and help individuals recharge. Incorporating activities they’re passionate about can bring fulfillment and joy.
    

4. Mindful Social Interaction: Level 1 autistic people may need more time to recharge after social events or interactions. Allowing space for decompression and not overextending in social commitments can help them maintain a healthy balance.
    

Why Neuroaffirming Language and Representation Matter

Using neuroaffirming language to discuss autism validates the experiences of autistic people and promotes acceptance. Language that avoids deficit-focused terms like “disorder” and “deficit” helps create a society that values different ways of thinking and experiencing the world. Additionally, staying away from functioning labels is beneficial in speaking in a truly neuroaffirming manner. Embracing terms like “neurotype” instead of “disorder” aligns with neurodiversity-affirming language, which highlights individual strengths while acknowledging challenges. This approach also encourages level 1 autistic folks to feel empowered and understood, which can be crucial for self-esteem and mental health.
 

Towards a Neurodiversity-Inclusive Society

Understanding and supporting level 1 autistic people from a neurodiversity perspective enriches society by recognizing the unique contributions and perspectives of each individual. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work for autistic people, and creating supportive, inclusive spaces allows everyone to thrive in their own way. Through self-advocacy, neuroaffirming workplaces, and better education, level 1 autistic people can live fulfilling lives, offering unique insights and valuable skills.

Recognizing and celebrating cognitive diversity benefits everyone, creating a world that values the authentic expression of each person’s unique neurological wiring. By building a society that embraces neurodiversity, we not only support level 1 autistic individuals but also cultivate a world of acceptance, empathy, and progress that honors the spectrum of human experience.