Masking is one of the most misunderstood aspects of autistic experience, and one of the most significant contributors to burnout, anxiety, depression, identity confusion, and delayed diagnosis. Many autistic adults describe masking as both a survival strategy and a source of profound exhaustion. Professionals often see the consequences long before they recognise the cause. 

Our 3-hour presentation brings parents, autistic adults and professionals together to explore the why, how, and what next of unmasking. We will unpack the science of masking, the lived‑experience realities, and the mental‑health implications across the lifespan. Participants will learn how to recognise masking in themselves or the people they support, how to differentiate masking from coping, and how to approach unmasking in ways that are safe, paced, and aligned with personal values. 

Our presentation is suitable for autistic adults, late‑identified neurodivergent people, mental‑health clinicians, educators, support workers, and anyone committed to neurodiversity‑affirming practice.