We all have a need to belong. But pretending to be 'normal’ has big consequences- it often results in higher levels of anxiety, burnout, and depression. Research shows that high masking autistic individuals are more vulnerable to bullying and mistreatment, as our hidden disabilities make us easy targets for ridicule. The fear of rejection from a world unfamiliar with our unmasked selves can be daunting, leading many of us to hesitate before fully embracing our authenticity. B
