Masking is a survival technique used by neurodivergent individuals to fit in and avoid harassment or bullying. It takes a toll on mental health, leading to anxiety, low self-esteem, and a constant fear of slipping up.

In this episode, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss the concept of masking and unmasking in neurodivergent people. They explore the reasons why individuals mask their true selves, the fear of not being taken seriously, the pressure to conform to societal norms, along with the deep masking experienced during teenage years. The conversation explores the benefits and challenges of masking disabilities, the dehumanizing perspective towards people with disabilities and why unmasking is a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Takeaways:

• Society's judgment of neurodivergence and disability as weaknesses contributes to the fear of being authentic and the need to mask.
• Social media can be a breeding ground for bullying and judgment, as people feel detached and empowered to tear others down.
• The desire for companionship and acceptance drives individuals to mask their true selves, but it is important to find a balance between fitting in and being authentic.
• Authentic friendships are built on being real and accepting each other's true selves.
• Teaching children to mask in certain situations can help them navigate the world, but it's important to also encourage their authentic selves.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:32 Masking and Unmasking

01:30 The Freedom and Comfort of Masking

04:22 The Toll of Masking

05:23 The Challenge of Being Fully Authentic

06:22 The Persona of Masking

07:22 The Loss of Energy and Foundations

08:20 The Deep Rest from Masking

09:19 Putting on Masks to Fit In

10:19 Using Comedy and Stand-up to Mask

11:42 The Unmasking Effect of Conversations

12:40 The Intensity of Unmasking

13:37 The Breakthroughs of Speaking Out Loud

14:26 The Impact of the Podcast

19:15 Knowing and Communicating Limits

20:14 The Need for Companionship

21:35 The Pressure to Fit In

23:56 The Dark Side of Social Media

25:17 The Fear of Disability

28:15 The Fear of Being Ostracized

29:10 The Toll on Mental Health

30:16 The Pressure to Meet Neurotypical Standards

31:43 The Gazelle Among Lions

33:39 The Fear of Ridicule

35:02 The Dehumanizing Experience

37:25 The View of Neurodivergence as a Developmental Disability

39:17 The Gaslighting and Lack of Self-Trust

40:14 The Benefit of Masking

45:04 Hyperfocus on Autism

46:29 Uncomfortable with Asperger's Label

47:56 Hyperfixation on Autism Stereotypes

50:21 Stimming and Comfort Objects

56:41 Masking as a Teenager

01:02:54 Starting the Unmasking Process

01:05:14 Struggling with Self-Identity

01:07:14 The Privilege of Masking

01:18:24 Teaching Masking to Neurodivergent Children

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

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