Code Switching and Masking: A BIPOC survival tool

When observing the words “masking” and “code switching,” we would categorize them as synonyms of one another. The act of masking and code-switching is often used in the same social settings, such as the workplace, academia, and healthcare. Masking has been in use within BIPOC communities since slavery as a survival tool to present as obedient. Code-switching was acknowledged

when BIPOC communities began to integrate into white spaces. For BIPOC communities, the impact of shielding our authentic selves and shifting our language has taken a toll on our mental health, often causing exhaustion and burnout.

Before getting into the cons and pros of these survival tools, let's define them.

• Code-Switching: changing your language, dialect, accent, or behavior to match the norms of a specific environment.

• Masking: the process of hiding one's true personality, emotions, or natural traits to adapt to social norms 

Impact on Mental Health

BIPOC communities often experience the negative impact of utilizing code-switching and masking. There is a high percentage of BIPOC individuals who reported experiencing burnout, mental strain, fatigue, inauthenticity, identity crisis, and are misdiagnosed when attempting to address mental health issues. I know what we are thinking. If the cons are detrimental, what is the

purpose of utilizing such tools? The answer is simple. The purpose has been survival. For the BIPOC community, given extensive generational trauma due to a history of systemic and institutionalized oppression, maintaining safety while moving through the world is key.

These survival tools are utilized when interacting in primarily white institutions (PWIs). The protection these tools help to combat negative stigma and stereotypes that BIPOC individuals often face in PWIs. These tools often help BIPOC individuals present palatable, which can lead to benefits of avoiding conflict and career advancements. Although there are benefits to these survival tools, it still leads to unhealthy mental health concerns. The question is, how do we cope while surviving?

How Do We Cope

We must not get lost in the acts of survival. It is important to create spaces to decompress from our false roles. Remember to participate in downtime to combat burnout. Downtime should be intentional, such as engaging in mindful journaling, deep breathing, stretching, etc. Leaning on community is important to utilize when combating burnout and inauthenticity because it helps reconnect to others encountering the same experience while being in a safe space. Affirmations are often a nice tool in grounding oneself. Repeating statements that align with your true identity can help reinforce connection to your roots.

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Writer: Aquanetta Hart, LPC

Healing does not have to be a solo mission. It is okay to seek help when you are struggling with daily life stressors while living in a world filled with random chaotic events. If you are seeking help you set yourself up for success for the long haul reach out for a free consultation.