Masking
Suppressing autistic traits and performing neurotypical behaviour to fit in. Validated by research, linked to burnout and mental health crisis.
AutismIdentityEmotional Regulation
Layer 2: Validated
Clinical Recognition
Extensively researched as 'camouflaging' in autism literature. Linked to mental health outcomes, late diagnosis, and burnout. Measured via standardised scales.
Community Validation
Universal recognition in autistic communities. Described as exhausting, necessary for survival, and primary cause of burnout.
Published
17 December 2025 by Team Heumans
Masking is the act of suppressing autistic traits and performing neurotypical behaviour to avoid standing out, being rejected, or facing consequences. It's forcing eye contact when it's painful. Scripting conversations in advance. Holding in stims until you're alone. Pretending to understand social cues you're frantically trying to decode.
It's not lying. It's survival. And it's exhausting. Every neurotypical interaction becomes a performance you're improvising in real-time while your nervous system screams.