ADHD Crash Course Ep 115. Why Masking Feels Safer (and Why It’s Time to Stop If You Have ADHD)
If you have ADHD, you've likely spent a good portion of your life masking—suppressing or hiding traits to fit into environments that weren’t designed for your brain.
In this episode, I’m diving into what masking really is, how it shows up in everyday life (like interrupting or stimming), and most importantly, what we can do instead to show up more authentically, while still respecting ourselves and the people around us.
I’m an occupational therapist and executive functioning coach, and I’m here to make life with ADHD easier and more empowering.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro: Why we need to talk about masking
00:42 - What is masking in ADHD?
01:30 - Why we mask (hint: it’s about survival)
02:00 - Interrupting: Impulsivity, emotional regulation & working memory
03:45 - Masking vs. problem solving in social situations
04:50 - Stimming: What it is & how masking impacts it
06:10 - The need for dignity, collaboration & support
07:00 - Masking vs. healthy growth: What’s the difference?
08:15 - Real-life story: Masking during grad school interviews
09:45 - How masking blocks authentic connection & opportunity
10:30 - Final thoughts: What to do instead of masking
👉 Join my mailing list for weekly ADHD tools, insights, and compassionate strategies for real life.