The pressure to conform is universal, but for individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD and autism, it can manifest as an exhausting, even damaging, survival tactic known as “masking.” This involves suppressing natural behaviors and mimicking social norms to avoid judgment or rejection – a practice that’s becoming increasingly recognized as a significant contributor to mental health struggles.
What is Masking?
Masking, also called camouflaging, refers to the deliberate effort to hide traits considered socially unacceptable. This can include suppressing stimming behaviors (repetitive movements), forcing eye contact, mimicking emotional expressions, or even altering speech patterns. While anyone might engage in some level of social adjustment, masking for neurodivergent individuals often becomes a chronic, involuntary response to navigate a world designed for neurotypical behavior.
The Origins of the Term
The term “masking” emerged from the autistic community itself, as a way to describe the exhausting labor of hiding one’s true self. It’s not about deception, but rather a survival strategy in environments that punish non-conformity. For example, a clinical psychologist with ADHD, like Dr. Amara Brook, described using a physical distraction (a Jolly Rancher held between the teeth) to prevent impulsive outbursts during a high-stakes meeting. This illustrates how masking can be a deliberate, even necessary, tactic in hierarchical settings.
Why Does This Matter?
The prevalence of masking is rising as awareness of neurodiversity increases. The constant effort to suppress natural behaviors takes a significant psychological toll. Studies show that chronic masking is linked to:
- Increased anxiety and depression: The disconnect between internal experience and external presentation creates internal conflict.
- Burnout: The energy expenditure of continuous performance is unsustainable long-term.
- Delayed self-discovery: Suppressing core traits can make it harder to understand one’s own identity and needs.
The Cost of Conformity
Masking isn’t inherently harmful in moderation. However, when it becomes the default mode of operation, it erodes authenticity and can lead to severe mental health consequences. The key lies in recognizing the difference between adaptive social behavior and compulsive suppression. Individuals who feel forced to mask constantly should seek support, whether through therapy, peer groups, or advocacy for more inclusive environments.
The long-term cost of masking is not just emotional exhaustion, but a fundamental loss of self. It’s time to create spaces where neurodivergent individuals can thrive without having to hide who they are.
