Autistic Masking and the Role of Therapy in Autistic Burnout

By Simona Pilloni

Autistic masking—sometimes called camouflaging—is when an autistic person consciously or unconsciously hides traits associated with autism to fit into social environments. This can include mimicking facial expressions, forcing eye contact, suppressing stimming behaviors, or rehearsing conversations. While masking may help someone navigate work, school, or relationships, it often comes at a significant emotional cost.

Art by Joseph Moore

Many autistic individuals report that long-term masking leads to exhaustion, anxiety, depression, and a loss of identity. Over time, constantly hiding one’s natural ways of thinking, communicating, or behaving can lead to what’s known as autistic burnout: a state of extreme mental and physical fatigue. Masking can also delay diagnosis, especially in women and marginalised groups, who may feel greater pressure to conform to social norms.

Therapy can play a crucial role in helping people understand and process their experiences with masking. An autism-informed therapist won’t focus on changing or “fixing” autistic traits. Instead, they create a safe, validating space where clients can explore their authentic identity, learn self-advocacy skills, and develop strategies for unmasking in safe and supportive environments.

One of the most important things therapy can offer is permission—not just to cope, but to be. Many autistic individuals have spent years trying to be someone they’re not. Therapy can help undo that harm by encouraging self-acceptance and empowering people to live more authentically.

For family members, educators, and employers, understanding the toll of masking is key. Creating environments where autistic individuals feel safe, respected, and accepted—without needing to hide—is essential to their well-being.

By recognising masking and supporting unmasking through compassionate therapy and inclusive spaces, we move closer to a world where autistic people are free to be themselves.