Autism is a spectrum, with each person experiencing the neurotype uniquely. While many are familiar with the more visible autism presentations, there is a growing recognition of the highly masking presentation, which can be much less obvious. In this blog post, we will explore what it means to mask, why it’s essential to understand this aspect of the autistic neurotype, and how a neurodiversity affirming approach can benefit those who are highly masking.
What is Masking, or the ‘internalised presentation’ of Autism?
Masking is the act of suppressing your natural behaviours and expressions to conform to societal expectations. For autistic people, this might include forcing eye contact, mimicking social behaviours, or hiding sensory sensitivities. The goal of masking is often to ‘fit in’ and avoid judgment, but this can lead to emotional exhaustion, mental health challenges, and an overall sense of disconnect from your true self. Many people who mask may go unnoticed in school, at work, or in social situations, leading to late diagnoses and burnout.
The Impact of Masking on Mental Health
Masking may seem to an outsider like an effective coping mechanism in the short term, but for autistic people it can have serious consequences for mental well-being. The constant pressure to hide your true identity can lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, and a sense of isolation. Many autistic people who are highly masking report feeling like they are constantly pretending to be someone they are not. This cognitive effort is often invisible to others.
A Neurodiversity Affirming Approach
A neurodiversity affirming approach honours neurodivergent individuals for their unique ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Rather than viewing masking as something that needs to be ‘fixed’, a neurodiversity affirming lens encourages acceptance and understanding. The focus shifts from forcing individuals to conform to societal norms to creating environments where they can thrive by embracing their authentic selves. It also looks at managing the cognitive resources that autistic people have available to them while building capacity to calm, soothe, and regulate to manage the toll of being in neurotypical environments.
How Telehealth Psychology Can Support Highly Masking Autistic Individuals
For neurodivergent people experiencing the negative effects of masking, telehealth psychology offers a flexible and supportive space to explore challenges and needs. Our psychologists provide a neurodiversity affirming approach through online sessions, creating a safe space for you to discuss your experiences without judgment. This allows you to unpack the emotional toll of masking, work through mental health concerns, and build self-acceptance. Your complete, authentic self is welcome in our sessions.
The Path Toward Acceptance and Well-Being
Understanding the highly masking presentation of autism through a neurodiversity affirming lens is key to fostering a supportive, inclusive society. People who mask their autistic traits may need extra support to unlearn these coping mechanisms and embrace their authentic selves. As we continue to move toward a more inclusive world, it's crucial to recognise the importance of celebrating neurodiversity. Through telehealth services (like The Neuro Nurture Collective!), we can work together to help autistic people live fulfilling lives with confidence, authenticity, and self-love.
