What is Masking and How Does it Play into Managing ADHD/Autism

If you or someone you know has ADHD or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you might have heard of the term “masking.” If this term is new to you, that’s okay. The term masking is used in many cases to describe specific behaviors that hide or reduce the characteristics of both ADHD and ASD.

Typically, someone with ADHD or ASD develops a shield or a mask that they metaphorically put on in certain situations. It could also mean they are mimicking the behaviors of others that they think are “normal.” For others, they may develop routines or “scripts” that work in specific social situations.

One important thing to note is that this usually isn’t done out of embarrassment or shame. It’s often done out of a perceived necessity to fit in with those around them.

While signs of masking in someone with ADHD and ASD can be similar, they also have many unique characteristics. Throughout this article, we will discuss some of those signs and how masking plays into managing both ADHD and ASD.

Signs of ADHD Masking

ADHD masking is often learned at an early age due to children having less impulse control than older kids and adults. In many cases, the behaviors used can help disguise traits and symptoms, including mimicking accents, facial expressions, or phrases. It can also include being able to study or copy social interactions to respond accordingly. Others can script conversations or direct conversations to avoid difficult topics.

Signs of ASD Masking

When masking autism, it’s common for someone to try to avoid certain situations. For example, someone sensitive to sound or light might try to avoid those situations altogether. If that’s not possible, they will do everything they can to avoid reacting to those things.

A common masking behavior in children is to avoid rocking back and forth or fidgeting with their hands. This is because it can be seen as strange or odd behavior by those who don’t understand autism. Teenagers, if they feel nervous, tend to come up with scripted questions and answers to use in social situations to feel more comfortable.

Impacts of Masking

For someone with ADHD or autism, masking can lead to delayed or incorrect diagnosis. In many cases of children with ASD or ADHD, if certain behaviors are suppressed, it can lead to proper care not being received.

Many adults with ADHD can go decades without a diagnosis due to masking. It’s not uncommon for them to question their behaviors after learning about a friend, family member, or colleague with similar characteristics.

Additionally, it’s common for someone who is masking to face mental and physical burnout.  Studies have shown that children with autism tend to hide their authentic selves, and it leaves them unable to make social connections or think creatively. Eventually, it can lead to irritability, anger, and stress.

Someone with ADHD can feel the need to be “on” at all times, and they don’t want their mask to slip. This leads to those with ADHD often feeling exhausted when they get home from social situations and interactions.

Helping Those Who Mask Symptoms

At times, it can feel hard to help someone with autism or ADHD, especially when they are masking their symptoms and how they feel. One of the best ways to help them is to show acceptance. Even though they may not believe it at first, it’s important to make sure they understand they don’t need to hide their selves around you.

Try to help them understand and assure them they are worthy of acceptance. You can do this by not taking outbursts personally and helping with workarounds for specific situations that could trigger symptoms.

If you or someone you know struggles with masking autism or ADHD, talking to a therapist may help. Please reach out today to learn more.