Autism Expert: What Autistic Masking Feels Like From The Inside

Dr Martin Brunet has 25 years experience as a NHS GP. He has a special interest in Autism and ADHD and is the author of the best selling book entitled ‘Make Your Worry Make Sense’.

In this episode, Dr Martin Brunet explores the hidden reality of autistic masking, why it starts, what it feels like, and the long-term impact it can have on identity, relationships and wellbeing. We discuss the subtle signs of masking, why so many autistic people go undiagnosed, and what it can look like to safely rediscover who you are beneath the mask.

Chapters:

00:00 Trailer

01:08 What Masking Actually Feels Like

06:32 How Early Does Masking Start?

07:48 What Teaches a Child to Start Masking?

09:26 Can One Cruel Comment Change You for Decades?

11:22 What Are Autistic People Protecting Themselves From?

14:03 Is Masking a Choice — or Completely Automatic?

16:29 The Autistic Mirror

19:54 When Masking Becomes a Survival Mechanism