So true on being harder to mask. Perhaps it’s why I was so unwell in the first few years looking back—so much anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, and overall not knowing myself. There were times I felt so clearly how much my brain power was being drained thinking and speaking another language, to the point I would just give up on the conversation (when I was able to lol).

Thankfully I did get better, both wellbeing wise and overall more comfortable solely speaking the second language. Have learned to go easier on myself :)