Introduction
For many neurodivergent individuals, such as those with conditions such as autism, ADHD, or social anxiety, daily interactions often involve a coping strategy known as “masking.” Masking, also referred to as “camouflaging,” is the process of consciously or unconsciously suppressing one’s natural behaviours, traits, and reactions to conform to societal expectations. While masking can help individuals navigate social situations and professional environments, it comes with significant emotional, psychological, and physical challenges.
This article explores what masking is, why people do it, and the difficulties associated with constantly hiding one’s authentic self.
What Is Masking?
Masking is the practice of altering one’s behaviour to appear neurotypical or to fit in with social norms. This can include:
- Mimicking social cues (e.g., forcing eye contact, rehearsing responses)
- Suppressing natural behaviors (e.g., avoiding stimming, such as hand-flapping or rocking, which provides comfort)
- Forcing small talk despite discomfort
- Hiding sensory sensitivities (e.g., tolerating loud noises or bright lights to avoid appearing “difficult”)
- Adopting scripts for conversations to avoid social missteps
People mask in various settings—at school, work, or in social interactions—often as a means of self-protection from misunderstanding, bullying, or exclusion.
Why Do People Mask?
Neurodivergent individuals often feel pressured to mask due to societal expectations. The reasons behind masking can include:
- Avoiding judgment and discrimination: Many individuals fear being perceived as “weird” or “difficult,” leading them to suppress their natural behaviors.
- Professional and academic survival: Workplaces and schools may not accommodate neurodivergent traits, forcing individuals to adapt to rigid structures.
- Social acceptance: Many people mask to maintain friendships and relationships, fearing rejection if they express themselves authentically.
- Safety concerns: Some mask to avoid bullying, harassment, or discrimination in environments where neurodivergence is misunderstood.
While masking can provide short-term benefits, such as improved social interactions or career advancement, it often comes at a cost.
The Hidden Challenges of Masking
Emotional and Mental Exhaustion
Constantly monitoring and adjusting one’s behavior is mentally draining. Neurodivergent individuals often experience “social burnout,” feeling utterly exhausted after prolonged interactions. Masking requires significant cognitive effort, leading to stress, fatigue, and anxiety.
Identity Struggles
Long-term masking can blur the lines between one’s authentic self and the persona they present to the world. Some neurodivergent individuals report struggling with their sense of identity, feeling unsure of who they truly are outside of their masked behaviors.
Increased Anxiety and Depression
The pressure to mask can lead to heightened anxiety and, in some cases, depression. Suppressing natural behaviors and emotions can create internalized self-doubt and feelings of isolation. The fear of “slipping up” and being judged can further exacerbate mental health struggles.
Delayed Diagnosis and Misunderstanding
Many individuals, especially women and people of color, remain undiagnosed because they have masked their traits so effectively. Since many diagnostic tools focus on external behaviors rather than internal struggles, highly masked individuals may not meet the criteria for a diagnosis, delaying access to support.
Masking at the Cost of Self-Care
Neurodivergent individuals may suppress their needs to maintain appearances, such as enduring overwhelming sensory environments, forcing social interactions, or working beyond their energy limits. Over time, this self-neglect can lead to burnout and even physical health problems.
Difficulty in Authentic Relationships
Masking can make it challenging to build genuine connections. If an individual is constantly presenting a version of themselves they think others will accept, they may struggle to form deep, meaningful relationships. It can also be difficult to drop the mask, even in safe environments, leading to emotional isolation.
Unmasking: The Path to Self-Acceptance
While masking can feel necessary in some situations, learning to unmask—at least in safe environments—can be liberating. Steps toward unmasking include:
- Self-awareness and self-acceptance: Recognising and embracing neurodivergence as a natural variation of human experience.
- Finding supportive spaces: Seeking out friends, workplaces, or online communities that value neurodiversity.
- Gradual unmasking: Identifying safe situations where one can express themselves authentically.
- Advocating for accommodations: Requesting workplace or academic adjustments that reduce the need for masking, such as flexible communication styles or sensory-friendly environments.
- Therapy and peer support: Working with professionals or connecting with neurodivergent peers to navigate the unmasking journey.
Conclusion
Masking is a survival strategy for many neurodivergent individuals, but it comes with significant emotional and psychological challenges. While society often expects conformity, embracing neurodiversity and fostering inclusive environments can help reduce the need for masking. By creating spaces where individuals feel safe to be themselves, we can move toward a world that values authenticity over forced adaptation.
For those who mask, the journey toward self-acceptance may not be easy, but every step toward unmasking is a step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
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