Neurodivergent Masking Is Survival: Understanding Why We Learn to Hide

Masking isn’t a lie—it’s a life skill. In this solo episode of Neurodivergent Solutions, Dr. Regina McMenomy unpacks why neurodivergent people learn to mask from such a young age and why it’s not a failure of authenticity but a tool for safety and belonging.

Drawing from her personal experience as a late-diagnosed ADHD adult and mother, Regina explores how masking develops in response to rejection sensitivity, social expectations, and survival instincts. She also discusses the complex reality of unintentionally teaching masking to our kids and why approaching this topic with compassion is the key to healing.

You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of:

• How masking starts (and why it’s reinforced)
• Why it’s normal to mask even after diagnosis
• The cost of masking—and the power of reframing it
• How to begin the unmasking process with self-trust and intention

If you’ve ever felt ashamed for hiding parts of yourself, this episode will help you replace that shame with compassion.

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About Dr. Regina McMenomy PhD,

Regina is an educator, consultant, and founder of Divergent Paths Consulting. With over two decades of experience in higher education and instructional design, she now helps individuals create more inclusive, neurodivergent-affirming spaces. A late-diagnosed ADHDer herself, Regina blends academic insight, personal experience, and a healthy dose of nerdy joy to help others unmask, heal, and thrive.