What Is Masking, Anyways?

If you've heard the word masking but aren't totally sure what it looks like in your own life, this episode is for you.

In this episode Dr. Salena Justice breaks down autistic masking, what it actually is, why it happens, and what it looks like across every area of daily life. It also includes an honest conversation about why unmasking isn't always the goal and why that nuance matters.

In this episode:

• What autistic camouflaging actually is and why it's more than just masking
• The three components of camouflaging: compensation, assimilation, and masking
• Why masking is a survival strategy, not a choice, and why it often develops without anyone realizing it
• The social chameleon experience and how autistic assimilation goes beyond a typical work persona
• Why unmasking isn't always safe or realistic, especially for people of color and marginalized communities
• What masking looks like in social situations, your body, your emotions, at work, and in relationships
• Why years of masking can leave you genuinely unsure of who you actually are
• Your action step: how to start noticing your masking without judgment

Resources:

• Free worksheet: Identifying How You Mask Your Autistic Traits
• Follow on Instagram: @dr.salenajustice
• Learn more about therapy and assessments