Masking can begin as a practical way of meeting expectations and gradually become automatic. Over time, it may be hard to tell where deliberate coping ends and a well-practised way of moving through the world begins.

Appearing capable can hide a great deal of work. Planning ahead, checking, rehearsing, compensating and recovering may all sit behind an outward impression that everyday life is being managed easily.

ADHD masking describes the ways people may hide or compensate for difficulties so they are less visible to others. Some of these adaptations can become so familiar that they are difficult to recognise from the inside.