LibraryScenariosWhen Masking Becomes So Automatic You Lose Yourself
Scenario

When Masking Becomes So Automatic You Lose Yourself

I've been masking my autism so well for so long that I don't remember what my actual personality is underneath all the learned behaviors.

Hypatia
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Long-term masking can create a disconnection from one's authentic self as learned neurotypical behaviors become indistinguishable from genuine personality.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Neurodiversity & Learning Differences?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.