Masking or camouflaging refers to attempting to appear neurotypical and communicate across neurotypes. People with ADHD do this in various ways and to various degrees. For example: some people try to internalize their hyperactivity, or channel it into less noticeable fidgets, some people try to appear more bubbly or less bubbly than comes naturally to them, some people find eye contact overwhelming but try to force it anyway.
The inner neurotypicality adviser is one way to conceptualize the constant conscious effort that many neurodivergent people make to appear neurotypical in social interactions.
How heavy is it?
Do you ever get to put it down?
Masking is something neurodivergent people have learned to do in order to avoid bullying or to be accepted. The important question is: do you have places you can be accepted without masking?
There are several organizations that organize social groups for neurodivergent people, this can be a good starting point for people who don’t feel they have a space to be themselves.
Neuropride Ireland on Instagram
Quick Reference: ADHD Masking & Camouflaging
| Concept | Impact & Examples |
| Masking / Camouflaging | Suppressing neurodivergent traits to appear neurotypical (e.g., forced eye contact, suppressed fidgeting). |
| Cognitive Load | The “inner neurotypicality adviser” represents the constant mental energy required to self-monitor. |
| Coping Mechanism | Often developed as a protective response to avoid social marginalization or bullying. |
| Recovery | Identifying spaces where masking is not required is essential for mental health. |
Resources for Authentic Connection
Reducing the persistent burden of masking often involves finding environments that prioritize neuro-affirming communication. In Ireland, several organizations offer peer-led spaces:
- Neuropride Ireland: Advocacy and community-building groups.
- ADHD Ireland: Peer support networks, workshops, and national resources.
Practice Information
For those navigating the complexities of masking, unmasking and neurotypical expectations, specialized support is available. If you are seeking psychotherapy in Maynooth or Dublin 2, my practice is one option. I provide neuro-affirming psychotherapy, and offer a confidential space to explore these experiences. Please feel free to contact me.
Rebecca Bourke 
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