Polished but Drained: The Perfectionism Behind Neurodivergent Masking

“Masking isn’t just about ‘acting normal’—it’s about survival. For many neurodivergent individuals, every social interaction is a performance, every workday a test in self-control. They may appear calm, focused, or even exceptional on the outside, while inside they’re navigating a storm of anxiety, exhaustion, and self-doubt. The polished exterior hides the toll of perfectionism and the pain of never feeling fully seen. Over time, this double life doesn’t just drain energy—it erodes identity.”