Remote work has created a new masking landscape — removing some workplace stressors while creating new ones that require specific attention.
Remote Work Masking Challenges
- Isolation: Loss of casual social contact that previously buffered masking
- Boundary erosion: Work and home blur, preventing recovery
- Sedentariness: Lack of commute eliminates incidental movement
- Always-on pressure: Perceived need to be constantly available
- Reduced structure: Without external schedule, routine that protects against masking can collapse
Remote Work Advantages for Masking
- More flexibility for therapy appointments, exercise, and self-care
- Reduced commute stress and time
- More control over work environment
- For social anxiety: less acute daily social exposure
Remote Work Strategies for Masking
- Fake commute: Walk around the block before and after work to transition
- Dress code: Getting dressed signals to the brain that work has started
- Dedicated workspace: Physical separation of work and personal space
- Scheduled social contact: Proactively build in human connection