What Is Masking?

Masking is the act of camouflaging or suppressing neurodivergent traits in order to conform to social expectations. It can be conscious or unconscious—and while it might help someone "fit in" temporarily, it often leads to burnout, identity confusion, anxiety, and depression. Masking isn’t about faking who you are. It’s about protecting yourself in environments where being authentic has felt unsafe or misunderstood.