What Is Borderline Autism in Adults?

“Borderline autism” is not an official medical diagnosis, but it’s a term some adults use to describe experiencing mild or subtle autism traits. Clinically, this usually refers to adults who meet criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at a lower support level, often called Level 1 autism.

Adults who identify with borderline autism may function well in daily life but still face challenges with social communication, sensory sensitivities, routines, or emotional regulation. These traits can be overlooked for years, especially in adults who learned to mask or adapt their behaviors to fit social expectations.

Common signs may include difficulty reading social cues, feeling overwhelmed in noisy environments, preferring routines, intense focus on specific interests, or exhaustion after social interactions. Because these traits can overlap with anxiety, ADHD, or personality differences, many adults go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

A formal evaluation by a qualified professional is the best way to determine whether someone is on the autism spectrum. Diagnosis can provide clarity, validation, and access to meaningful support, even in adulthood.

At Milestone Achievements, we support individuals and families with personalized ABA therapy in Georgia with evidence-based ABA services. 

Learn how we can help guide the next steps. Contact us today!

SOURCE: 

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4784-attention-deficithyperactivity-disorder-adhd