Autistic Masking and Burnout: How Hiding Your True Self Leads to Exhaustion

Video Description

Unmasking autism can help manage autistic burnout, and yet autistic masking remains a much needed survival tool for many of us. We'll explore autistic masking from mimicking others to suppressing your true self, many of us unconsciously mask so how do we recognize it and begin the unmasking process? Dr. Megan Anna Neff's "Autistic Burnout Workbook" dives into understanding why we mask and how it significantly contributes to autistic burnout, especially for those with a late diagnosis. Brett draw's on their own experiences as a high masking autistic with ADHD to explore the complexities of unmasking autism and its impact on our well-being.   ****************************************************************************** Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction: Autistic Masking and Burnout 0:53) - Understanding Masking: My “Aha Moment” 1:45 - What is Autistic Masking? 2:31 - Examples of Masking Behaviors 7:46 - Autistic Making is Exhausting 8:09 - Unmasking Autism: Finding Your True Self 10:11 - Unmasking as a Journey 12:13 - Masking and Self-Doubt 13:51 - Techniques for Unmasking 16:13 - Strategies for Managing Masking 17:35 - Additional Resources and Conclusion ********************************************************************* Here's what we'll cover: 👉🏼Understanding Autistic Masking: Masking involves consciously or unconsciously suppressing autistic traits, mannerisms, and behaviors to blend in with neurotypical individuals. This can include mimicking others ("studying to be human"), scripting conversations, and adapting your personality to different social contexts. 🔥 The Link to Burnout: Masking creates a buildup of stress and tension, as you're not able to express your true self or meet your own needs. This can lead to overwhelm, exhaustion, and ultimately, burnout. 🎭 The Double-Edged Sword: Masking is often a survival strategy developed to protect ourselves from judgment or harm. However, the constant performance takes a toll on our mental and emotional health. 👉🏼Finding Your True Self: Dr. Neff discusses the concept of the "true self" versus the "role self," and how the pressure to maintain the "role self" can lead to a breaking point. Unmasking is the process of reconnecting with your true identity, understanding your needs, and creating a life where you can be more authentic. 👉🏼Unmasking Strategies and Self-Care: We'll discuss practical techniques for unmasking, such as developing interoceptive awareness (becoming more attuned to your body's signals), exploring what brings you joy, and setting boundaries. It's important to be patient and compassionate with yourself throughout this journey. Resources: For tools on exploring unmasking and more, be sure to check out all the free and paid resources at: https://neurodivergentinsights.com And be sure to use code: AUDHDBOSS at Neurodivergent Insights for a discount on paid resources. 📘Dr. Neff's "Autistic Burnout Workbook": https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507... 🔗Neurodivergent Insights (Dr. Neff's website): https://neurodivergentinsights.com 👉🏼Discount code for Dr. Neff's digital tools: AUDHDBOSS 🎥My interview with Dr. Neff:    • Understanding Autistic Burnout with Dr. Me...   Let's connect! Please like this video, subscribe to my channel for more content on autism and ADHD in the workplace, and share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. 💬 Let us know what type of sensory content you'd like to see next. 📣 Have questions or topics you want me to cover? Drop them in the comments! 🎥 YouTube & Podcast Helping neurodivergent professionals thrive in the corporate workplace. 📌 Follow me for weekly insights on navigating ADHD and autism in the workplace, corporate culture tips, and professional growth strategies. 🚀 Stay Connected & Learn More:Website: https://audhdboss.com 🎧 Listen to the Podcast: • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w9O1H4... • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 📺 Subscribe to My YouTube Channel: ⁠@AuDHDBoss 🔑 Topics Covered in My Content: ADHD in the workplace, Autism awareness and corporate challenges, Managing neurodivergent teams, Professional growth for ADHD & autistic employees, Coaching tips for workplace success 🌟 Join the Neurodivergent Professional Community and gain practical advice on self-advocacy, performance reviews, reducing anxiety, and celebrating your unique strengths in the workplace! 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and share this episode if it resonated with you!Subscribe for more content on autism and ADHD in the corporate workplace!