Masking, also called camouflaging or compensating, is when individuals repress or hide signs of a mental health condition to blend in or adapt to the neurotypical world.
How to Navigate Masking and Learning to Unmask
Coping with the challenges of masking, and exploring how to unmask, is a difficult process. This path forward will look different for everyone.
One way of approaching this challenge is by exploring what one’s “mask” looks like and if there are safe places to take it off. This might take the form of deciding to disclose one's neurodivergence to more people or allowing oneself coping skills, such as fidgeting or stimming, that are being suppressed. Feeling safe to unmask and be one’s true self can promote resilience . Kindness and understanding from neurotypical people in response can also go a long way.
However, the burden of change shouldn’t all be on the individual. Society has a role to play—to be more inclusive and accepting, and to create environments in which people with autism can thrive without hiding their authentic selves.
Unmasking can be deeply challenging yet worthwhile. The experience differs for everyone. It may require the courage to behave atypically and authentically. It may take time to rediscover one’s true self and live authentically. Some may find that their family, friends, or employer are accepting, while others may lose relationships.
Explore More About Masking
For a comprehensive understanding of masking, read our complete guide: