The Impact of Masking: A Candid Discussion on Neurodiversity and Mental Health in the Workplace

In this week's edition of The Driven Woman Entrepreneur newsletter, I tackle the topic of self-care, neurodiversity, and mental health.? This issue shares the highlights of my recent podcast interview with fellow therapist, coach, podcaster, speaker, and neurodiversity advocate, Pasha Marlowe.?

During the interview, Pasha and I explored the concept of "masking," a strategy often adopted by neurodivergent individuals, including myself, to navigate a world governed by neurotypical expectations. This concept is not foreign to many female entrepreneurs who may have felt the need to conceal parts of their identity to fit into the professional environment. But we highlighted not only the emotional and physical toll this takes but also the missed opportunity of authentic self-expression.

Our conversation underscored the importance of creating a more inclusive society that recognizes the innovation and progress spurred by embracing neurodiversity. We expressed hope for a future less laden with masks and greater acceptance of individuality.

It's not just about starting a business or nurturing it to success; it's about unlearning harmful beliefs and wholeheartedly embracing our own unique traits. Neurodiversity, as we discussed, should be celebrated and not hidden away. In a culture that often misunderstands it, we, as female entrepreneurs, need to ask questions, be curious, and foster safe spaces where we and others can be unapologetically ourselves – particularly uplifting our neurodivergent and queer community members.

Pasha introduced a term in the process of being trademarked – "neurobelonging" – which captures the essence of being true to oneself without the pressure to change in order to seek acceptance. Pasha's insights into this were illuminating, as was her commentary on the challenge of language in our quest for inclusivity and destigmatization.

The weight of the words we use – in private discourse or public dialogue – cannot be overstated. As female entrepreneurs, we wield language as a tool that can either hinder or herald change. To this end, our conversation veered towards a preference for the neurodiversity paradigm over the pathology paradigm, reshaping how we talk about and engage with neurodivergencies.

Lastly, we cannot forget the financial, logistical, and cultural barriers when it comes to diagnosis and the subsequent impact on mental health support. This issue, so crucial for access and understanding, was given much-needed attention in our dialog.

The variety of topics we covered in the podcast is rich and multifaceted, directly relevant to the journey of female entrepreneurs, especially those navigating neurodiversity. As you read this newsletter and reflect on my account of our conversation, I invite you to listen to the full episode for a comprehensive understanding of these critical themes. It is my belief that by choosing authenticity and advocating for inclusivity, we can forge a path where all of us can thrive.

Thank you for joining me in this timely and crucial conversation. Your thoughts, experiences, and insights are invaluable to our growing community of driven female entrepreneurs. Let us continue to support one another on our respective journeys and collectively shape a more understanding and diverse entrepreneurial landscape.

If you’d like to listen to the full interview on The Driven Woman Entrepreneur Podcast, click here. DM me and let me know your thoughts!