Neurodivergent Masking Fatigue/NEW-row-di-VER-gent MAS-king fuh-TEEG/
Exhaustion and stress that build up after prolonged masking of neurodivergent traits.
Andy says:
Wearing a heavy costume all day drains you—even if no one sees it.
Detailed Explanation
Long periods of suppressing stims, forcing eye contact, scripting speech, and copying social behavior create cognitive and emotional load. Over time, this can lead to burnout, anxiety, and reduced functioning. Reducing masking where safe and increasing acceptance lowers fatigue.
Community Context
Commonly discussed in autistic and ADHD communities. Many report relief from micro‑unmasking and supportive environments.
Quick Tips
- Plan unmasking windows; build in quiet, low‑demand time
- Use accommodations openly (headphones, sunglasses, AAC)
- Replace “people‑pleasing yes” with “consider and reply later”
Do / Don't
- Do: choose safe contexts to unmask; set boundaries
- Don't: self‑blame for fatigue; it’s an environment/load issue
Scientific Context
Studies link camouflaging to increased anxiety, depression, and burnout; supportive environments improve outcomes.
Language Notes
Related: masking, burnout, neuroaffirming.
Related Terms
Masking
Consciously or unconsciously hiding one's neurodivergent traits to fit in with neurotypical expectations.
Autistic Burnout
A state of intense physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion experienced by autistic people.
Neuroaffirming
Creating spaces, practices, and attitudes that accept and support neurodivergent people as they are, rather than trying to change, fix, or hide their differences.
Accommodations
Changes to the environment, tools, timing, or expectations that remove barriers so a person can participate on an equal basis.
Sources
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