The Unmasking Workbook for Autistic Adults: Neurodiversity Affirming Skills to Help You Live Authentically, Avoid Burnout, and Thrive

by Jessica Penot LPC-S, April Doty (narrator)

If you grew up before the neurodiversity movement, chances are you were taught at an early age that your autistic traits were "wrong" or "bad." Whether it was stimming, difficulties with making small talk, avoiding eye contact, sensitivities to loud sounds or certain textures, or even talking passionately about the things you care about—somewhere along the way you learned to mask these aspects of yourself to better fit in, avoid bullying from other kids, and in some cases to even gain the love of your own parents. The problem is that, over time, masking can lead to higher levels of stress, burnout, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and depression. So how can you be your authentic self and still succeed and thrive in a neurotypical world?

Written by a therapist who is actually autistic, this neurodiversity-affirming workbook offers skills to help you cultivate self-acceptance, manage intense emotions, and be your own advocate when needed. You'll take a good look at the situations or people that caused you to mask in the first place.

You don't have to mask, hide, or camouflage any longer. Let this workbook guide you on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. You are worthy of it. And you deserve it.

Audible Audio

Published November 26, 2024

Reviews

[Stephani Jahn, PhD · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is more of a book-with-reflection-prompts than a workbook-proper, but in my experience, that just made it better in audio format. It's got a genuine, affirming take grounded in lived experience of Autistic growth into self-love.

Downsides: There is occasional use of superficially deficit-based language. Lack of mention of Autistic social culture is a minor oversight.

Upsides: Overall this book does a good job of balancing affirmation of strengths and validation of disability, including some reference to the wide range of support needs. I'd say it's one of the more practical books out there for those reflecting on a late-diagnosis. Likely to become one of my primary recs!