You're Wrong About ADHD Masking ADHD: Why We Hide and How It Exhausts Us with Mark Redwood
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Apr 30, 2025 Mark Redwood, a counsellor and neurodivergent specialist, joins Katie and Sam to unpack the exhausting reality of masking ADHD traits. They discuss the emotional toll of conforming to societal expectations and the disconnect between one's true self and the persona adopted to fit in. The conversation delves into gender differences in masking and the importance of self-awareness for embracing authenticity. They explore how creating a supportive environment can transform one’s life, celebrating the uniqueness of those with ADHD.
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Masking ADHD in Public
- Sam Pittis recounts being stopped by strangers noting his expressive facial emotions revealing ADHD traits.
- He deliberately masks by relaxing his face to hide emotions in public to avoid judgment and annoyance.
Learned Masking Drains Energy
- Masking is hiding ADHD symptoms, learned from childhood to conform.
- It involves suppressing natural behaviors like fidgeting, facial expressions, and interrupting, causing exhaustion.
Friends Accepted My True Self
- After diagnosis, Sam Pettis felt vulnerable revealing his ADHD to old friends.
- His friends reassured him it was "just him," helping him accept his true self.