Unlearning to Mask: From Surviving to Thriving

This article explores autistic masking, especially those discovering their neurodiversity later in life. As an autistic psychotherapist, I describe it as a crucial survival mechanism that protects but often harms our well-being.

This article discusses the impacts of long-term masking, autistic burnout, and the path to self-acceptance. As a psychotherapist and autistic person myself, I offer insights on embracing autistic identity and balancing adaptation with authenticity in a neurotypical world. Unmasking with insights and self-responsibility, and guiding oneself from survival to thriving as our true selves.