To Mask or Not to Mask: that is the question (for neurodivergent people)

Summary

In this episode of Real Over Ideal, Vanessa Gorelkin explores the complex topic of masking neurodivergent traits. She discusses the pros and cons of masking, its impact on mental health, and the importance of context and safety in deciding when to mask. 

Vanessa emphasizes that masking is not inherently good or bad but should be a choice rather than a necessity. The episode also includes practical strategies for managing masking and unmasking in various environments.

Takeaways

• Masking is a tool, not inherently good or bad.
• Chronic masking can lead to mental health issues.
• Masking should be a choice, not a necessity.
• Context and safety are crucial in masking decisions.
• Unmasking should be intentional and safe.
• Masking can protect against discrimination.
• Unmasking everywhere is not always advisable.
• Healthy masking is flexible and temporary.
• Unhealthy masking feels like hypervigilance.
• Grief about masking deserves respect.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Masking
• 00:03:00 Defining Masking
• 00:06:00 Pros and Cons of Masking
• 00:09:00 Impact on Mental Health
• 00:12:00 Practical Strategies for Masking

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If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

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Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467