Christine J GoldOwner, Soul Healers Sanctuary · ADHD Burnout Recovery Coach

The double burden of masking

29 May 2026 · 1 min

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In this brief monologue, the speaker explains that autism masking and ADHD masking are distinct processes, each involving different coping strategies. Autism masking entails deliberately performing neurotypical social behaviors—scripted conversations, mirroring, suppressing sensory reactions—to appear comfortable in overwhelming environments. ADHD masking involves compensating for executive‑function challenges, such as arriving early, over‑preparing, and creating routines to feel ready. The speaker emphasizes that when an individual experiences both forms of masking simultaneously, the combined “double mask” is especially taxing, leading to feelings of being trapped and exhausted.

Chapters

They're not the same thing. And when you have both, you have a double mask that's very costly. Autism masking, learning to perform neurotypical social behavior, script conversations, mirroring others, suppressing sensory responses, appearing at ease in environments that are completely overwhelming and you can't wait to get out like a caged animal. Not saying you're an animal, but that's the symbolism, the same idea when you're backed into a corner. ADHD masking is compensating for executive function differences. So arriving early, I love being early, at least 10 minutes, then I can get settled and have my tea. It's a thing. Over-preparing. I, yeah, how many more things do I need to do and then I might feel like I'm ready. We're never ready.