How are levels worked out?

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This is a question for those who have been diagnosed with DSM 5. Whether the ICD-11 has a similar thing I don't know. Is it just on degree of ASD symptoms? I'm thinking of a scenario where ASD symptoms are mild but comorbids are negatively impacting on functioning.

It’s just on degree of ASD symptoms.

My evaluation that was based on DSM V says that I have:

ASD level 1
PTSD
Generalized anxiety disorder
Major Depression
Etc.

Each thing is it’s own entity and doesn’t have a bearing on the other diagnoses I’ve been given. I’m not sure if this is exactly what you are asking for.

I have very mild autism, but taking all of my other problems into consideration, my functioning is greatly impacted. I might struggle more as far as functioning goes than someone who’s autism is at a level 2 but doesn’t have any other limitations. I’m not sure of that, but I think it’s a possibility.

In the DSM IV, there was a global assessment of functioning which allowed doctors to assign a number to a person’s overall functioning, taking the combination of disorders into account and how together they could limit a person’s functioning. Even though it was very subjective, I think it was probably a good idea when it comes to assessing people for disability and social services.

Thanks for your reply. Basing functioning purely on degree of ASD symptoms seems, to me, to be a way of some people not getting the help and support they need.