Social Camouflaging and Masking

At Once Both Beautiful and Unseen.

Many autistic women become experts at "masking," or imitating neurotypical behaviours to fit in socially. They become chameleons. They mimic facial expressions, rehearse conversations, or suppress stimming behaviours. While this can lead to short-term social acceptance, it often results in exhaustion, identity confusion, and autistic burnout.

Women and girls are frequently socialised to be agreeable and accommodating, which can intensify the pressure to mask. This often leads to misdiagnosis or late diagnosis, as their struggles are less visible. They may be seen as shy, anxious, or quirky rather than autistic.

What Can Help:

1. Safe, judgement-free spaces where autistic women can unmask and express themselves without fear are essential. Peer-led support groups and online communities can be incredibly validating.

   
   

2. Professional validation through therapy with autism-informed counsellors and therapists can help them explore their identity and unlearn harmful social conditioning.

   
   

   #QuercusCounselling #Autism #Burnout