Masking
Masking is when someone hides or changes behaviours to fit in. It can be exhausting and affect wellbeing.
Definition
Masking can include copying social behaviours, suppressing stims, or forcing eye contact. It may help people avoid judgement but can increase stress and fatigue. Safe spaces and supportive relationships can reduce the need to mask. Respecting preferences and autonomy is important.
Why it matters here
We aim for affirming language that does not demand masking.
In NeuroBreath you can use this term for…
Common misunderstandings
- Masking means someone is not really autistic.
- Everyone masks in the same way.
Related terms
Citations & review
Educational only. External links are provided as copy‑only references.
Written by:NeuroBreath Editorial Team·Editorial team
Reviewed by:Evidence Review Desk·Evidence reviewer
Editorial roles: Author drafts content · Reviewer checks clarity and safety language · Evidence reviewer checks source quality · Accessibility reviewer checks readability. Meet the editorial team.
Last reviewed
17 Jan 2026
Next review due
16 Jul 2026
Updated
17 Jan 2026
Evidence & sources
0 sources · tiers C
Update history
- 17 Jan 2026contentInitial glossary definition published.
Educational information only — not medical advice. Read the disclaimer.