We'd need to have a rigorous definition on what it means to mask, and to agree on which behaviors should be considered masking, and which are simply being socialized, and what's necessary to exist in a society and what's not, before we could have a detailed productive conversation.

Therapy absolutely helps. Unlearning maladaptive behaviors rooted in childhood trauma is part of being a well-adjusted adult.

It takes energy to not do every impulsive thing that comes to mind. Fine, don't call it masking to not give into them. Whatever you want to call it though, it's exhausting.

What's the different way?