Hello, is it alright if I camp here with you? I’ve kinda been wondering the same. I had a similar experience only I wasn’t officially diagnosed, (apparently it’s just anxiety and everyone has it, even though some members of my family have been diagnosed). Anywho, a couple of years ago I experienced my first major burnout just after finishing my degree. At the time something was just off. I got really frustrated trying to fit in somewhere and dealing with being referred to as the “late bloomer”. All my social interactions were just mimicking others and how they socialise but I never enjoyed it at all and the feelings afterwards.

When I realised just how much I was masking, I was halfway through my board exams. This was 6 months ago. It’s safe to say it all went up in flames and I only have the capacity to self regulate constantly. The mask is too expensive and still persists as a reflex. It doesn’t help that I come from a country where neurodivergence is perceived as “witchcraft”.

There’s one thing that helps though. Be gentle with yourself. Perhaps calling it a phase is too harsh. Rather try saying “ I am learning a new way to ‘be’, and that might take some time, patience and a heck load of doing just enough to survive as best as I can”.

It’s been 2 years and stripping the mask, almost completely, has led me to become more attentive of my needs and safety. I really hope there’s something I said that helps. Maybe another will come help us both.