Unmasking Autism: Tips from People in a Similar Situation

It works the best when you have a supportive environment so surrounding yourself with loved ones that will be accepting, even if you have to explain it a little, helps. Aside from that start slow and with what you are the most comfortable with and with what you need the most. Don't be afraid to adjust coping mechanisms to fit your lifestyle and start with some things in private to work up to doing it around others. Maybe try some positive affirmations and reminders as you go if that helps you. If you want any specific advice or to talk you can ask or message me.

I've lived my life around people who judge or don't understand my autism. My advice would be to not care what others think of you, and if they will listen, you can try explaining it to them. There's no need to be ashamed of your traits, you're perfectly valid the way you are. If people judge you, try to find some better friends, there's a lot of other people just like you that would love to make friends!

I personally started with allowing myself at least one comfort object whenever I left the house, whether that be a stuffed animal, a fidget tool, or something else.

I totally relate to this. If it helps, you can always practice unmasking when you're alone first, or with a few people you really trust. Unmasking can also look like accommodating yourself in daily life. One of the biggest things I did for myself was to get comfortable wearing earplugs in stores. Made a huge difference for me.

just be yourself. you don't have to start "acting autistic" to be autistic. I never learned how to mask, but i think that's mostly because i dont care how other people perceive me. it's just never been important. feel free to talk about your feelings more, etc. but you don't need to start running around the store flapping and melting down constantly to "prove" yourself to anyone

I would just say to not be afraid to set form boundaries and tell people exactly what you need. It's not a bad thing to be autistic, and people who act like it is need to be informed or cut off.

as someone who was also diagnosed in adulthood, its hard to not feel ashamed. Autism is often fed to the masses as an infantilized mental disorder. finding support within people close to you is very important to feel comfortable. Of course, you do not need to wear autism on your sleeve either. It often isn't obvious when someone has autism (it doesnt matter anyway BUT it helped me earlier on to think that no one knew). If anyone ever begins to behave differently around you that isnt to accommodate or to comfort, be careful and remember your worth.

the best thing I've found is to be around people who are familiar with autistic traits and people you feel comfortable around. also I've had to adjust to accepting that I benefit from things like noise cancelling headphones, and so carrying them around with me often makes it easier to remember to use them