Five important facts about ADHD masking:
What ADHD Masking Is: ADHD masking refers to the practice of hiding or suppressing ADHD symptoms in order to fit into social expectations or avoid negative judgment.
Emotional Toll: Constantly masking symptoms can lead to emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and low self-esteem, as it requires significant effort to maintain.
Common in Women: Research suggests that ADHD masking is more common among women and girls, who often feel pressured to meet social norms and are less likely to be diagnosed early.
Delayed Diagnosis: Individuals who mask their ADHD symptoms may go undiagnosed for longer, as they may appear to be functioning well, despite internal struggles.
Impact on Mental Health: Masking can worsen co-occurring conditions such as depression and anxiety, as suppressing ADHD symptoms may prevent individuals from seeking appropriate support or treatment.
These facts highlight the complexity of ADHD masking and its potential impact on diagnosis and mental health.
