Modern understanding of masking increasingly centers on the nervous system — specifically, the chronic dysregulation that underlies many masking presentations.
The Nervous System in Masking
The autonomic nervous system has two primary states relevant to masking:
Sympathetic activation ('fight or flight'): When chronically activated, drives anxiety-type masking
Parasympathetic ('rest and digest'): The recovery state — undermined by masking
Dorsal vagal shutdown: A third state — freeze/collapse — associated with depression-type masking
Signs of Nervous System Dysregulation in Masking
Chronic hyperarousal (always 'on edge'), difficulty relaxing even in safe environments, and feeling perpetually exhausted despite rest.
Regulating the Nervous System for Masking
- Breathwork: Directly activates the parasympathetic nervous system
- Cold exposure: Controlled cold activates the vagus nerve, improving masking
- Safe social engagement: Co-regulation through trusted relationships
- Movement: Discharges sympathetic activation accumulated in masking