“High functioning”. Lol. How about highly anxious, highly overstimulated, and highly exhausted.
In reality, if I didn’t have daily support, my entire life would fall apart in a matter of days.
What you’re seeing is masking and choreography. Masking is a sophisticated form of camouflage that autistic people adopt to survive, either consciously or subconsciously.
My life depends on scripts, routines, and people who help me hold the pieces— like reminding me to eat and helping me make appointments and understand instructions. If I lost my support system, everything would collapse.
Growing up, I struggled with self-harm, socialization, change, and su!cidal ideation and attempts.
Sometimes I would burst into tears or walk out of class. Other times, I’d mask just fine. Until I couldn’t anymore and would very suddenly unravel.
Without structure and support, I would not have the privilege of being who I am right now.
My husband helps me with mail, scheduling appointments, and decoding things people say when my auditory processing gives up mid-sentence, among many other things.
And, I hate to break it to you, but these videos are edited *GASP* *SHOCK* sorry 😜.
I infodump well, but spontaneous conversation is a minefield.
You don’t see me have a meltdown because someone showed up unannounced. Or losing my ability to find words to express myself because I’m overstimulated.
This is not high-functioning. This is a disabled brain using every ounce of its’ energy to survive this strange world.
[ID: A video of Syanne, an autistic and physically disabled Latina, speaking into the camera from her bathroom vanity. She is wearing a long sleeved greenish/blue shirt with blue jeans.]
#EndFunctioningLabels #ActuallyAutistic #AutisticAdults #DisabilityEducation #MaskingIsDisabling
The phrase "high functioning" is often used to describe autistic individuals who appear to manage daily tasks relatively well, but this label can be misleading and harmful. In reality, many people who are termed "high functioning" rely heavily on intricate support systems including routines, scripts, and assistance from loved ones to navigate life's complexities. These supports are not signs of lesser disability but vital tools that help maintain daily functioning and mental well-being. Masking is a common technique used by autistic people to camouflage their differences, often subconsciously. While it may help in social situations or professional settings, masking carries a significant emotional and cognitive toll, frequently leading to heightened anxiety and exhaustion. Studies have shown that heavy masking correlates strongly with increased rates of anxiety and can cause sudden emotional meltdowns when an expected routine is disrupted or sensory overload occurs. Moreover, these labels do not capture the full spectrum of challenges faced by autistic individuals. They often obscure invisible struggles such as difficulties in auditory processing, sensory sensitivities, or executive functioning deficits. For example, some autistic adults might experience sudden word-finding difficulties or become overwhelmed by unexpected events, facts rarely shown in social media portrayals or public narratives. Experts and the DSM-5 have moved away from using rigid functioning categories because these labels can stigmatize, oversimplify, and contribute to misunderstandings. Instead, a focus on individualized support needs rather than broad functioning labels can lead to better outcomes and more tailored assistance. Understanding the lived experiences of autistic individuals requires dismantling stereotypes and appreciating the diversity within the community. Recognizing that what appears as "high functioning" is often a complex choreography of coping mechanisms and supports helps in advocating for more empathetic social policies, better mental health resources, and greater awareness. The message is clear: "high functioning" does not mean "no support needed." It does not mean struggles are any less real or serious. It means society must listen more carefully and respond with empathy, providing consistent and meaningful support to truly include and empower autistic people in every aspect of life.
