New AuSM Resources Support the Journey to Unmasking

For many autistic people, masking—hiding or suppressing natural behaviors in order to fit in or avoid judgment—can feel like a necessary survival skill. But it often comes at a high cost, leading to burnout, identity confusion, and disconnection from authentic self-expression. That’s why the Autism Society of Minnesota has developed two new resources designed to support the unmasking journey: The Unmasking Toolkit and The Supporting Unmasking Toolkit.

These tools were created with autistic voices and experiences at the center. They recognize that unmasking is not about giving up all coping strategies or presenting one “right” way to be autistic. Instead, it’s about increasing choice, self-awareness, and comfort—and supporting people as they reclaim their energy, authenticity, and joy.

The Unmasking Toolkit

The Unmasking Toolkit is designed specifically for autistic people who want to understand their masking patterns and explore what unmasking might look like. Through prompts, practical exercises, and specific strategies, this resource helps users reflect on:

• What masking looks and feels like in their own lives

• Why they started masking in the first place

• Which masks feel protective vs. harmful

• What environments feel safest for unmasking

• How to take small, intentional steps toward authenticity

This toolkit doesn’t push anyone to move faster than they’re ready. Instead, it honors the reality that unmasking is deeply personal, nonlinear, and shaped by each person’s access to safety, community, and self-trust.

The Supporting Unmasking Toolkit

Created as a companion guide for caregivers, educators, therapists, and loved ones, the Supporting Unmasking Toolkit offers insight into what the unmasking process may involve—and how to show up in ways that are truly helpful.

This resource includes:

• A foundational overview of masking and unmasking

• Common misconceptions and how to avoid them

• Practical ways to foster safer spaces and reduce pressure to mask

• Communication strategies that validate and empower

• Sample affirmations and supportive scripts

Unmasking can be vulnerable and even scary—but it’s easier when others understand, affirm, and hold space without judgment.

Why It Matters

Unmasking is not about making autistic people more palatable to the world. It’s about helping the world make more room for autistic people to exist fully as themselves. With these new resources, AuSM hopes to expand that room—and give autistic individuals and their supporters tools to walk this path together, at their own pace.

Both toolkits are free and available for download on the AuSM website. Whether you’re autistic yourself or someone who cares about creating more affirming environments, these toolkits are a meaningful step toward deeper understanding and stronger community.