Masking is something that we all do. We adapt our communication style and behaviours based on who we are with and the situation we are in. The demands of our day means we wear many masks; who we are with our children, with our colleagues, or talking to parents, we adapt our communication style without realising and without effort. The difference for an autistic individual is that this may require more effort and concentration to understand the social expectations within a particular context and then adapt accordingly.  

Autistic individuals may be continually trying to navigate social experiences to feel included and accepted or because they think this is what they should be doing.  They may also mask to stop themselves feeling as though they stand out.  Many autistic people say they only take the ‘mask’ off in places where they feel safe and accepted. 

Masking can be really tiring and may have a negative impact on wellbeing and self-esteem in the long term because it can involve hiding aspects of who they really are.  Long term, it may contribute to autistic burnout if they are not getting a break from masking. 

Masking can make it more difficult for others to identify that a pupil is struggling. By providing them with the right supports early, this can help identify situations they are finding challenging and provide strategies to help build resilience around these. Without understanding these challenges, situations can become so overwhelming that they may try and avoid them completely, such as not wanting to go to school or things that make them feel anxious.