Unmasking Autism: The Hidden Struggles Behind Masking Symptoms
Many people camouflage their innermost feelings and thoughts, so that they are ‘invisible’, or unobservable to the outside world. This phenomenon, sometimes known as "masking," is particularly prevalent among some people who live with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Masking symptoms of autism can be a complex and exhausting endeavour, leading to a host of issues that compound and amplify the stress and isolation that might come as a result of living with untreated autism.
The Art of Masking
Imagine attending a social gathering or a job interview. For individuals living with autism, these scenarios can be bewildering. To cope, the individual mighgt employ the art of masking - a façade designed to mimic socially accepted behaviours. Masking can manifest in various ways. Some individuals with ASD might imitate eye contact, mirror expressions, or rehearse scripts for conversation. They may suppress their natural instincts, such as stimming (repetitive movements or sounds), to avoid drawing attention to themselves. This suppression can be exhausting and emotionally draining.
The Hidden Struggles
Mental Fatigue: Imagine constantly monitoring your words, actions, and reactions, like an actor on stage. Masking requires immense mental effort, leaving individuals with ASD feeling exhausted. This chronic fatigue can exacerbate anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Identity Crisis: Masking can lead to a profound sense of identity loss. Those with autism may feel disconnected from their true selves, constantly adapting to fit societal expectations. This struggle to reconcile their inner world with the outer facade can lead to a sense of loneliness and confusion.
Delayed Diagnosis: The ability to mask symptoms often leads to delayed diagnosis. Some individuals may go undiagnosed until adulthood, missing out on crucial early interventions and support.
Social Isolation: While masking can help individuals navigate social situations, it can also lead to superficial relationships and interactions, that are not subjectively meaningful or fulfilling. Maintaining the mask may come at the cost of forming genuine connections and friendships, and being authentic.
Unmasking the Truth
So, how can we unmask? Here are some important steps:
Awareness: Increased awareness about masking is crucial. Educate yourself and others about this phenomenon to foster understanding and empathy.
Safe Spaces: Create safe and accepting environments where individuals with autism can be themselves without fear of judgment or rejection.
Therapeutic Support: Seek professional help from therapists and psychiatrists who specialises in autism. They can provide strategies to cope with masking and work towards a more authentic self.
Advocacy: Advocate for better recognition and support for individuals with ASD in schools, workplaces, and communities.
Mask appropriately: sometimes, people with autism can use their masking skills, when it suits and serves them, such as at work. The key to doing this in a healthy way is to know when to use a mask, and to do so voluntarily. When done in this way, it can be empowering and protective, in small doses, and with self-care and self-acceptance around the times when the mask is on!
Masking symptoms of autism is a remarkable but exhausting feat that individuals with ASD often undertake to navigate a world that may not fully understand or accommodate their needs. As psychiatrists, it is our duty to unmask the hidden struggles behind this phenomenon and provide the support and understanding necessary for individuals with autism to thrive.