Advice for unmasking as an adult with autism?

Hi! I was just diagnosed at 40 this past summer. What I have realized with help from my psychologist is that a good portion of my masking has been subconsciously formed over my life and that has been the most difficult to identify. I also struggle with identifying my own emotions and such so that causes more struggle. Overall, it is quite a process for my own journey. I did start by picking up some fidgets, stuffies and following my identified sensory needs. If you ever need to chat, I'm here as well!

Hi Lovey! I’m betting you’re feeling all kinds of things right now! Confused, relieved, overwhelmed, anxious, etc. All of those are COMPLETELY ok! Unmasking is a process, and I’m still learning how to do so! I’ve found that giving myself permission has helped me the most. I’ll tell myself (and I’ve even put stickie notes saying this around), “it’s ok for me to unmask!” I’ve also some neurospicy friends that help me be my unmasked and authentic self. There are still a lot of situations in which I don’t feel safe or comfortable unmasking, and that’s ok, too. We can be unmasking buddies! 🤗