Masking isn’t just something neurodivergent people do. We all adapt, suppress emotions, and perform versions of ourselves to fit in, avoid conflict, or meet expectations. But constantly appearing “fine” can be exhausting. When the mask finally comes off, food, alcohol, or endless scrolling can become ways to find relief. What if these habits aren’t simply about lacking self-control, but about coping with the emotional cost of holding everything together?

The day my brain broke.