Do I Mask in Relationships Quiz
You're exhausted after spending time with your partner, even though you love them. You feel like you're constantly performing, editing yourself, making sure you're not "too much." Sound familiar?
If you've ever felt like you're putting on a show in your relationships—romantic, friendships, or even with family—you might be masking. And honestly? You're not alone. Masking in relationships is way more common than people realize, especially if you're neurodivergent, highly sensitive, or have a history of being criticized for just being yourself.
But here's what's really frustrating: most people don't even realize they're doing it. You've been editing yourself for so long that it feels normal. You might think everyone does this, or that this is just what being considerate looks like. But there's a big difference between being thoughtful and completely hiding who you are.
What Happens When You Start Unmasking
The idea of dropping your mask in relationships can be terrifying. What if people don't like the real you? What if they leave? What if you're rejected?
Those are real risks, and I won't pretend they aren't. Some people might not know how to handle your authentic self, especially if they've gotten used to your masked version. Some relationships might change or even end.
But here's what's also true: unmasking allows for the possibility of real connection, authentic love, and relationships that actually energize you instead of draining you.
You'll find out who your real friends are. The people who stick around when you start being authentic are the people worth keeping. The ones who leave? They were never really connecting with you anyway—they were connecting with your performance.
You'll start attracting people who actually like you for who you are. When you stop hiding your interests, your sense of humor, your way of thinking, you'll start meeting people who genuinely appreciate those things about you.
You'll have more energy for your relationships because you won't be spending it all on maintaining a facade. You can actually be present instead of constantly monitoring yourself.
You'll be able to ask for what you need and set boundaries that actually work for you. Your relationships will become more balanced and sustainable.
You'll feel less lonely even when you're alone, because you'll have a better relationship with yourself. And you'll feel more connected even in your relationships, because people will actually be seeing and responding to you.
Ready to explore your masking patterns and learn to be authentic in relationships? At Sagebrush Counseling, we help people understand when they're hiding their true selves and develop the skills to build more genuine connections.
Do I Mask in My Relationships?
Discover how authentic you are in your romantic relationships
If you're experiencing crisis or thoughts of self-harm:
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Seek professional help if you experience: persistent relationship distress, emotional abuse, inability to function, substance abuse, or any mental health concerns. A qualified mental health professional can provide proper assessment, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations tailored to your specific situation.
Approaches to Address Relationship Masking
Individual Therapy
- Deep exploration of authentic self
- Understanding masking patterns and origins
- Building self-awareness and confidence
- Developing healthy boundaries
- Processing past trauma or conditioning
- Personalized coping strategies
Couples Therapy
- Improving communication patterns
- Creating safe spaces for authenticity
- Addressing relationship dynamics
- Building mutual understanding
- Developing healthy conflict resolution
- Strengthening emotional intimacy
Based on your quiz results, consider speaking with a qualified mental health professional who can provide personalized assessment and support. Our licensed therapists can help you explore relationship patterns and develop healthier ways of connecting authentically with others.
Schedule a ConsultationProfessional therapy services available. Initial consultations help determine if our services are right for your needs.
