Understanding Masking: A Deep Dive into Identity and Expression

The Importance of Workplace Inclusion

Masking—when neurodivergent professionals conceal their natural behaviours to fit in—can damage wellbeing, confidence, and performance at work. At neurobox, we partner with organisations to build truly inclusive workplaces through targeted neurodiversity awareness training, disability audits, and practical adjustments.

Our webinar looks to reveal how masking affects employees, why inclusive practices matter, and actionable steps your organisation can take to support neurodivergent colleagues and improve workplace culture.

 

Watch Donna's Webinar

Webinar Overview:

This session explores the concept of masking among neurodivergent individuals, particularly in professional environments.

Our guest Armelle McGeachie shares her personal journey with dyslexia and dyspraxia, offering insights into the emotional and cognitive toll of masking, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces.

The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding, community, and cultural change in workplaces to support authenticity and mental well-being.

Key Takeaways

  1. Masking is Exhausting and Emotionally Taxing

Neurodivergent individuals often suppress their traits to fit societal norms, especially in workplaces. This leads to mental fatigue, overthinking, and a loss of authentic self-expression.

  1. Unmasking Requires Safe Spaces and Supportive Communities 

Creating environments where individuals feel safe to be themselves—whether through peer support, trusted colleagues, or neurodivergent communities—is essential for unmasking and personal growth.

  1. Employers Play a Crucial Role in Inclusion

Organisations can foster authenticity by building neurodivergent-friendly cultures, offering education and awareness programs, and focusing on outcomes rather than rigid input expectations.

Meet our Speaker

Donna - a female in a white shirt and camel colour trousers smiling at the camera. Donna has shoulder length brown hair
Donna Stevenson - Head of Training Services

Donna Stevenson is Head of Training for neurobox. As Head of Training she develops and delivers high-quality neurodiversity Awareness Training and associated programs.

Donna started her career as a Nursery Nurse and a Primary School teacher where she developed a passion for supporting those learners with dyslexia. This then lead her to work for many years at the British Dyslexia Association (BDA).

Over the years at the BDA, she’s worked with children and adults with dyslexia; working within education and workplaces to raise awareness and champion the Dyslexia Friendly approach.

In 2022, she joined Succeed With Dyslexia (SWD) as Head of Training and Assessment, utilising her years of experience to create a global serviceShe continues her work supporting the community as a SWD Ambassador and a part of the ANND Coalition (Adult Network: Neurodiversity and Dyslexia), as well as SHADDA Local Dyslexia Association.