The outer world may not realize that how tiring it is to act normal when symptoms start creeping in. I sometimes catch myself stiffening up while trying to suppress confusion, paranoia or mood swings. It feels like carrying a heavy weight while simultaneously to keep smiling. I usually run mentally drained by the time I get home.
Masking is automatic for some. They pretend that everything is fine at work, in social situations or with family. It becomes a habit to them. However, it takes a toll. Holding in fear, overstimulation or unusual thoughts may worsen symptoms later.
Others argue that masking protects them from unwanted attention or else irrational judgment. However, it is also true that it means we rarely get to express what we actually feel. Not every environment feels safe to remain honest. So, masking becomes a survival tool and not a choice.
How do you handle masking?
Masking is automatic for some. They pretend that everything is fine at work, in social situations or with family. It becomes a habit to them. However, it takes a toll. Holding in fear, overstimulation or unusual thoughts may worsen symptoms later.
Others argue that masking protects them from unwanted attention or else irrational judgment. However, it is also true that it means we rarely get to express what we actually feel. Not every environment feels safe to remain honest. So, masking becomes a survival tool and not a choice.
How do you handle masking?