The Truth About Masking in Autism

🎭Masking is a form of camouflage used by autistic individuals to conceal their autism and appear neurotypical.

🤐Masking involves suppressing autistic traits such as stimming to fit into social norms.

⚠️Masking can be harmful and prevent early diagnosis and support for autistic individuals.

😷Masking can cause physical and mental exhaustion for autistic individuals, leading to burnout.

💡Promoting acceptance and understanding of autism can reduce the need for masking and create a more inclusive society.

What is masking in autism?

—Masking is a behavior where autistic individuals hide their autistic traits and try to appear neurotypical.

Why do autistic individuals mask?

—Autistic individuals often mask to fit into social norms and avoid judgment or discrimination.

Is masking harmful?

—Masking can be harmful as it suppresses the true self of autistic individuals and can lead to burnout and mental health issues.

How can we support autistic individuals who mask?

—Supporting autistic individuals means creating a safe and inclusive environment where they can be their authentic selves without fear of judgment.

What can we do to reduce the need for masking in society?

—Promoting acceptance and understanding of autism, educating society about the diversity of neurodivergent individuals, and fostering inclusivity can reduce the need for masking.

00:02Masking is a behavior where autistic individuals hide their autistic traits and try to appear neurotypical.

00:22Masking involves suppressing autistic traits such as stimming to fit into social norms.

00:53Masking can be harmful and prevent early diagnosis and support for autistic individuals.

02:22Masking can cause physical and mental exhaustion for autistic individuals, leading to burnout.

03:50Promoting acceptance and understanding of autism can reduce the need for masking and create a more inclusive society.