What Role Does Functioning Level Play in ICD-11 Autism Diagnosis?

PostedNovember 15, 2025

UpdatedNovember 15, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

The ICD-11 autism functioning level plays a crucial role in determining the level of support a person with autism may require. While ICD-11 does not categorise autism into subtypes, it does consider the functional impact of the condition. This includes an assessment of the individual’s ability to perform daily tasks, communicate, and interact socially, which helps guide both diagnosis and treatment planning.

How Functioning Level Influences Autism Diagnosis in ICD-11

Here’s how ICD-11 autism functioning level is taken into account:

Autism Severity

The ICD-11 classifies autism based on the severity of symptoms and the level of support required. Individuals with higher support needs, due to more severe symptoms, may require more intensive interventions, while those with milder symptoms may need less support in areas such as communication and social interaction.

Support Needs

It focuses on how much support a person needs to engage in everyday activities. This includes support for communication, social skills, and managing sensory sensitivities. The assessment of support needs helps professionals determine the best approach to intervention and educational strategies.

Functional Impact

The functional impact of autism refers to how much the symptoms interfere with daily life. The ICD-11 takes into account how autism affects an individual’s ability to function at home, in school, or in the workplace. This can range from mild impacts, where the individual can manage with minimal assistance, to more severe impacts, where intensive support is necessary.

By evaluating the ICD-11 autism functioning level, clinicians can create a personalised treatment plan that addresses the unique challenges each person faces. Visit providers like Autism Detect, who offer tailored consultations and expert guidance.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Autism Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5, ICD-11).

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.