Autistic masking is when autistic people actively hide their autistic traits to fit in with their non autistic counterparts, and is more commonly reported among Level 1 autistic people, or people sometimes referred to, at least as was the case in the past, as “high functioning autistic”.
The implications of masking are not inconsequential, and adversely impact mental health, having been tied to things like anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
It’s imperative we have a long game to foster a culture that values, not just tolerates, individuality, empowers personal growth, and ensures equitable opportunities.
But until that happens, I think we have other important questions to ask.
I’m curious to learn what others, and particularly autistic people who do experience this, feel about where the line is between masking autistic traits and acquiring skills to navigate their social environment in a way that will increase their likelihood of accessing their desired outcomes, personally or professionally.
How do we best empower individuals in being self reflective and autonomous in identifying and balancing the implications of doing one over the other?
Please feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments if you’d like.
