Masking
Masking
Masking is when a person hides or changes their natural behaviour to fit in.
This can include:
stopping stimming (self-soothing actions like hand-flapping or fidgeting)
avoiding eye contact
practising what to say in conversations
Masking is common for neurodivergent young people, especially in school or social settings.
Masking can help a young person feel safe in the moment. But doing it all the time can lead to:
feeling very tired
anxiety (feeling worried or nervous)
burnout (feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope)
What Masking Might Look Like
Young people may:
copy how others talk or act to fit in
stop themselves from stimming
plan or rehearse conversations
smile or laugh when they feel uncomfortable
hide their real feelings or needs
Parents or carers may notice that the young person seems fine at school but becomes upset at home. This can be a sign of masking fatigue (being very tired from masking).
Resources and Helpful Information
The National Autistic Society is a charity that helps autistic people and their families with information, advice, and support. Its masking guide explains that some autistic people hide their natural behaviours to fit in or be accepted by others. The guide describes what masking can look like, why people do it, and how it can affect mental health and wellbeing. It also shares ideas for supporting autistic people and helping them feel safe to be themselves.These resources help families, schools, and friends better understand autism and the challenges of masking
Kids is a charity that helps disabled and neurodivergent children, young people, and their families get support and advice.Its masking guide explains why some autistic and ADHD children hide their true feelings or behaviours to fit in with others. The guide helps parents understand the signs of masking at different ages and how masking can affect wellbeing. It also shares practical tips on how to support children and create places where they feel safe to be themselves. These resources help families better understand their child and support their confidence and mental health