Unmasking Masking: The Impact of Masking in Neurodivergent Individuals
Masking, a term used to describe the strategies used to hide feelings, or behaviours to fit into societal norms and expectations. It is a phenomenon commonly experienced by many neurodivergent individuals, especially those who have been diagnosed much later in life. In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of masking, its impact on neurodivergent individuals, and explore ways to support those who engage in masking behaviours. If you want to find out about your level of masking, take our free masking test here.
What is Masking?
Masking is a coping mechanism that many neurodivergent individuals, such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), use to navigate social situations and everyday interactions. It involves mimicking or suppressing certain traits or behaviours that are perceived as atypical or socially unacceptable in order to blend in and appear more neurotypical.
Masking can manifest in various forms, including masking sensory sensitivities, imitating social cues, suppressing stimming behaviours, or altering communication styles to better align with societal expectations. While masking may help neurodivergent individuals navigate social situations more easily, it can come at a cost to their mental health and well-being.
According to Felicity Sedgewick and Laura Hull in their book on Autism and Masking, there are many different types of masking such as instinctive, conscious, subconscious, ingrained and more.
Instinctive masking– is caused by a fear response causing individuals to freeze or fawn. These behaviours are similar to a trauma response to a trigger or threat.
Subconscious masking– is a mask created by an individual to the point they don’t realise it is a masking behaviour anymore and is hard to be aware of.
Ingrained masking– is a learned response to a trigger and was a conscious masking strategy to begin with but has become a default response by the individual. An example of this can be suppressing a burp in public.
Conscious masking– is an active decision to use masking strategies in situations that are uncomfortable or where the individuals feels unsafe to be their authentic self.
The Impact of Masking
Masking can have a profound impact on the mental, emotional, and physical health of neurodivergent individuals. Some common effects of masking include:
- Exhaustion and Burnout: Constantly monitoring and adjusting one’s behaviour to fit in can be draining and is one of the biggest causes of burnout.
- Identity Struggles: Masking can create a disconnect between one’s true self and the persona they present to the world, leading to identity struggles and feelings of inauthenticity.
- Increased Anxiety and Stress: The pressure to mask and meet societal expectations can contribute to heightened anxiety and stress levels in neurodivergent individuals even more so when many already struggle with learning how to cope with stress effectively.Â
- Risk of Developing Mental Health Conditions: Not being able to cope with stress and anxiety over a long period of time can risk developing mental health conditions such as Major Depression, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Eating Disorders and more.
- Social Isolation: Masking behaviours may prevent neurodivergent individuals from forming genuine connections with others, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Masking Overload: Engaging in masking over an extended period can result in a loss of self and a sense of being overwhelmed by the effort to maintain the facade.
Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals
It is important to create a supportive and inclusive environment for neurodivergent individuals to feel comfortable being their authentic selves. Here are some ways to support and empower neurodivergent individuals who may engage in masking behaviours:
- Listen Without Judging: An individual who is trying to unmask is in a vulnerable position. It is important to listen to their experiences without judgement.Â
- Have Patience: An individual who has masked their whole lives will take a long time to make sense of their masking and will require compassion and patience from their loved ones.Â
- Educate Others: Raise awareness about masking and its impact on neurodivergent individuals to foster empathy and promote acceptance.
- Promote Acceptance: Encourage acceptance and celebration of neurodiversity within families, schools, workplaces, and communities to create a more inclusive and understanding environment.
- Provide Safe Spaces: Create safe spaces where neurodivergent individuals can be themselves without fear of judgement or discrimination.
- Offer Accommodations: Provide accommodations and adjustments in various settings, such as sensory-friendly environments or communication supports, to help neurodivergent individuals feel more comfortable and supported.
Embracing Authenticity
In a world that often values conformity and sameness, it is crucial to recognise and celebrate the diversity of human experiences and perspectives. By embracing authenticity and allowing neurodivergent individuals to be their true selves, we create a more inclusive and accepting society where everyone can thrive and contribute their unique strengths.
Do you relate to masking? You can take a free masking test on our website – click here.
Looking for support? A neuro-affirmative therapist can help you to unmask, check out our directory here.
Author: Illin Johnson
Illin is a content creator for NeuroDirect and a neurodevelopmental support coach for her business Neurostar Wellbeing. Being a late-diagnosed autistic herself, she is dedicated to raising awareness about neurodiversity and empowering neurodiverse individuals through her social media content and work as a coach. With a background in neuropsychology and behavioural therapy she approaches her work with curiosity and compassion and strives to create a genuine and supportive connection with her readers.