JRS Educational Therapy

Monday, November 6, 2023 by Julie Stoner | Identity Work

Neurodivergent Masking

Neurodivergent masking, often referred to as "camouflaging" in the context of conditions like autism and ADHD, involves concealing or suppressing one's neurodivergent traits, behaviors, or characteristics to blend in with the neurotypical majority or societal expectations. While masking may sometimes be a coping strategy for individuals to navigate social situations more comfortably, it can also be harmful for several reasons: 

Mental and Emotional Strain: Masking requires significant mental and emotional effort. Individuals may constantly monitor and adjust their behavior, often leading to exhaustion, anxiety, and stress. The ongoing effort to fit in can be emotionally taxing and contribute to mental health challenges.

Authenticity and Self-Acceptance: Masking can lead to a sense of disconnection from one's true self. It may create a gap between how individuals present themselves to the world and who they genuinely are. This disconnection can impact self-acceptance and self-esteem.

Burnout: Prolonged masking can result in burnout. Individuals may reach a point where they can no longer sustain the effort to conform to neurotypical norms, leading to a breakdown in mental health and well-being.

Missed Support: When individuals mask their neurodivergent traits, they may not receive the understanding and support they need. This can be especially detrimental in educational, professional, or therapeutic settings where accommodations or interventions are necessary.

Social Isolation: Masking can isolate individuals from their peers. They may have fewer opportunities to connect with others who share their neurodivergent experiences, leading to social isolation.

Delayed Diagnosis and Intervention: Effective intervention and support often rely on accurate identification and diagnosis of neurodivergent conditions. When individuals mask their traits, it can lead to delayed diagnosis and, consequently, delayed access to appropriate interventions and accommodations.

Impact on Mental Health: Prolonged masking can contribute to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. The stress of concealing one's true self can take a significant toll on overall well-being.

Reduced Innovation: Embracing neurodiversity can lead to unique perspectives and creative problem-solving. When individuals feel compelled to mask their differences, society may miss out on the valuable contributions neurodivergent individuals can provide.

Stifled Self-Expression: Masking restricts individuals' ability to express themselves authentically. This can hinder personal growth, creativity, and self-discovery.

Sustainability: Masking is not a sustainable long-term solution. Over time, the effort required becomes increasingly burdensome and detrimental to an individual's overall quality of life.

Recognizing the harm of neurodivergent masking is a crucial step in fostering acceptance, understanding, and support for individuals with neurodivergent conditions. Encouraging a more inclusive and accommodating society can alleviate the pressure to mask and improve the well-being and success of neurodivergent individuals.