Ever feel like you’re performing a version of yourself just to get through the day? Like you’re acting out “Normal Person Energy” on loop? That’s masking. It’s the quiet effort of hiding your ADHD, anxiety, or other neurodivergent traits to fit in.

In this episode, I'm diving into my own experiences with masking, the toll it takes on mental health, and how honesty and self-acceptance can lighten the load. Masking often begins as a survival mechanism, but it can quickly turn into burnout if left unchecked.

✨ What I cover:

• What masking actually looks like and why it feels exhausting
• How anxiety shapes ADHD symptoms and fuels overcompensation
• The different types of masks we wear, from perfectionism to the helper mask
• How micro-honesty can make life easier without oversharing
• Why being open about ADHD and anxiety can create more supportive environments
• Learning to balance being capable and chaotic without burning out

💬 Quotes to remember:

"Masking was never really about pretending to be someone else. It was more about me trying to make life easier for everyone else." "You can be capable and chaotic. Professional and neurodivergent, anxious and confident, they can go hand in hand." "Micro-honesty, tiny truths like 'I process better if I could just jot notes while you talk,' is disclosure without a crazy long essay." "You don't have to shrink your ADHD or anxiety to make other people comfortable." "Since being honest, I don’t mask as heavily, and when I do, it’s lighter—less armor, more filter."

🧠 Takeaway:

Masking helps you survive, but it can also exhaust your mind and body. Small acts of honesty, supportive allies, and clear boundaries make it possible to navigate life as your true self without burning out. You can show up fully, chaotic and capable, and still be enough.

#ADHD #Masking #ADHDAnxiety #Neurodivergent #ADHDPodcast #MentalHealth #Unmasking #SelfAcceptance #ADHDLife