One of the lesser-known aspects of autism is “masking,” which is when autistic people learn to hide their autistic traits in order to fit into social situations better.
Masking is a coping mechanism that people with autism use to navigate a world that is not always accommodating to their needs. It allows them to blend in with their peers and avoid social stigma and isolation. Masking can take many forms, such as copying the behaviour of others, memorising social scripts, or forcing themselves to make eye contact.
However, masking is not without its downsides. It can be mentally and physically exhausting to constantly suppress one’s natural tendencies. It can also lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as autistics may feel like they are not being their authentic selves.
Moreover, masking can make it difficult for autistic people to receive a proper diagnosis or support. When someone is masking their autistic traits, it can be challenging for clinicians to recognise the symptoms of autism. As a result, autistic people may not receive the appropriate interventions and accommodations that they need to thrive.
It is important to note that masking is not unique to autism, and many people with other conditions, such as ADHD or anxiety, may also mask their symptoms. However, the specific challenges that come with masking in autism deserves more attention.
To address the issue of masking in autism, it is crucial to create a more inclusive society that accepts and accommodates neurodiversity. This can involve educating the public about autism and the masking phenomenon, providing more resources and support to individuals with autism, and creating more inclusive environments in schools, workplaces, and communities.
Therefore, masking in autism is a complex issue that deserves more attention and understanding and while masking can be a useful coping mechanism for many autistic people, it can also have negative consequences. By creating a more inclusive and accepting society, we can support autistic people in being their authentic selves and living fulfilling lives.
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