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A neurodivergent Indian’s journey understanding chronic pain & finding community < Back Neurodiversity, Disability, Health Navigating the invisible: Living with autism and fibromyalgia A neurodivergent Indian’s journey understanding chronic pain & finding community Akshay CM 16 Jun 2024 7-min read The thing with chronic pain is that you never get used to it. It lingers in your mind and body like background music that refuses to stop playing. You start loving sleep a lot because it drowns out the pain; it is an escape, a few precious hours where you are not aware of your body. I remember talking to my manager last year. I had said that I wanted to lie down every two hours between work because of the intense back pain caused by fibromyalgia. I was asking for accommodations, a place to lie down for 10 minutes. They responded, "You can go lie down on the floor in the production room." To say that I felt humiliated would be an understatement. I felt deeply embarrassed for asking, as if my needs were unreasonable. I tried to respond back, but my voice got somewhere stuck in my throat. You gape at words. Meanwhile, the relentless back pain hits you even harder. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2015, during my second year of my Bachelor’s degree. At first, you are happy that you have a word to describe your pain, a label for your ordeals, a sigh of relief—I'm not alone in feeling this. You have the urge to find all the medicines, to go to countless orthopedics and specialists, to undergo all the tests. The white halls of hospitals become imprinted in your memory. Despite all the efforts, you still struggle to sit up straight. All the medicines you chug in desperation cause you immense stomach pain and headaches that never end. Then you get to know that there is no cure. The pain will last as long as I live. This realization sits as a dark cloud on your chest. You struggle to breathe, to be okay with this new reality. Every movement hurts. The thing with the spine is that it’s connected to almost all body parts — your hands and legs, your neck. Every time I move, it hurts. Every time I lie down, the pain doesn’t stop. People around you do not understand what’s going on. That’s the thing with having an invisible disability, you form a façade to navigate through daily life. From the outside, I might appear fine, even normal. But underneath that exterior, there’s a constant battle waging between my mind and body. Friends offer their support, but their inability to see the full extent of my struggles often leaves me feeling isolated. They see me laughing, participating in activities, and assume I’m doing well. They don’t see the immense effort it takes just to get out of bed, the planning involved in every single action to manage pain and sensory overload. It’s not their fault—they simply cannot see the invisible war I’m fighting. And then, almost two years ago, I realised I was autistic. This new understanding added another layer to my experience with fibromyalgia. Autism makes me highly sensitive to sensory input. Bright lights, loud sounds, and strong smells are annoying and painful. Fibromyalgia heightens this sensitivity. The chronic pain from fibromyalgia makes my already heightened senses feel even more acute. The slightest touch can feel like a sharp stab, a loud noise can send a shockwave through my body, and a bright light can feel like a physical assault. It's as if my body is constantly in a state of alert, bracing for the next wave of discomfort. Fatigue is another relentless companion. Social interactions, already exhausting due to autism, leave me completely drained. Fibromyalgia adds a layer of fatigue that never seems to lift. Even after a full night’s sleep, I wake up feeling as though I haven’t rested at all. This constant exhaustion affects every aspect of my life, making it difficult to function and engage in everyday activities. Last year, there were many days when I was unable to get up from bed. Fibromyalgia is a nightmare; you just let the pain visit you, take its time, and let it be there. The pain becomes a constant companion, one that never leaves, one that doesn't even allow you to forget it for a moment. Living with autism and fibromyalgia means that every day is an exercise in endurance. The cognitive fog, or "fibro fog," adds another layer of difficulty. Autism affects my executive functioning skills, making planning, organizing, and completing tasks challenging. Fibro fog compounds these issues, causing memory lapses and difficulty concentrating. Some days, even the simplest tasks feel monumental. Thes smallest of things like getting out of bed and brushing feels like a victory. The emotional toll is also significant. Being autistic, I struggle with identifying and expressing my emotions, a condition known as alexithymia. This makes it hard to articulate what I’m feeling or why, leading to misunderstandings and a sense of isolation. Depression and anxiety are constant shadows, exacerbated by the frustration of dealing with an invisible illness that others often don’t understand. Social interactions are very challenging. The fatigue and pain make it hard to maintain relationships. When I do manage to interact with others, my conditions often make me feel misunderstood. People can’t see my pain or sensory overload, so they don’t always understand why I might need to leave early or why I’m not as engaged. This leads to a sense of loneliness, as if I’m fighting these battles alone. Office spaces defeat me; I try to mask all day. By the time I come back to my room, I have no energy except to crash and sleep, waiting for the next day. Simple things like grocery shopping or attending a social gathering require immense effort and planning. The unpredictability of my conditions means I never know how I’ll feel from one moment to the next. Some days, I can manage a semblance of normalcy; other days, even getting dressed feels like an accomplishment. Living with both autism and fibromyalgia is like navigating a complex, ever-changing ground. Each day presents new challenges and obstacles. The interplay between sensory overload, chronic pain, cognitive fog, and emotional turmoil creates a unique and often overwhelming experience. And probably, the worst thing is you have no idea what’s going on with you. With this piece, my idea is not to rant. I just wanted to give a glimpse of countless people like me who have a hard time with their body, with their mind, and the world that refuses to accept and understand them. I end with no tips or takeaways; the only thing I want to say in the end is that understanding and empathy can go a long way in making our invisible battles just a little bit easier to bear. So when we ask for accommodations, when we ask you to sit with us, when we ask you to believe our lived experience, please listen to us. When we ask for that unexpected leave, know that it's not a sign of weakness or a lack of commitment. It’s a necessity, a crucial part of managing our health and well-being. When I request to work from home, it's not because I want to slack off, but because the environment of the office can sometimes be too overwhelming. The bright lights, constant noise, and social interactions can trigger sensory overload and exacerbate my pain. A quiet, controlled environment allows me to be more productive and less distracted by my symptoms. When I need to take frequent breaks or lie down, understand that it’s a way to manage the intense pain and fatigue that come with fibromyalgia. It’s not about wanting special treatment; it’s about being able to function at a basic level. So, when we ask for understanding, accommodations, or simply for someone to listen, please know that we are not asking for special favours. We are asking for the opportunity to live our lives as fully as possible, to contribute, to be included, and to not be defined solely by our conditions. Our requests are not unreasonable. We are asking for a chance. Thank you for listening :) “To be truly radical is to make hope possible rather than despair convincing.” Raymond Williams P.S. Here are some signs I found that might indicate fibromyalgia or chronic pain/fatigue: Persistent pain that affects multiple areas of the body. Feeling tired even after a full night's sleep and experiencing exhaustion after minimal physical activity. Experiencing memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and feeling mentally foggy. Feeling pain from pressure or touch that wouldn't normally be painful. Trouble falling or staying asleep, or waking up feeling unrefreshed. Akshay CM (he/ they) is a queer-autistic and disabled Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) professional and organizational sociologist. With a rich background in international marketing networks, fintech services, startups, and educational consultancies, Akshay has spent the last several years developing and implementing feminist DEI strategies, conducting cultural audits, and leading DEI trainings across multiple sectors. Follow Akshay CM on LinkedIn Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Societal prejudice and online ableism faced by the influencer with dwarfism. < Back Disability, News Abdu Rozik Reacts to Trolling After Wedding Announcement Societal prejudice and online ableism faced by the influencer with dwarfism. MMS Staff 18 May 2024 3-min read In the world of social media, where personal milestones are celebrated publicly, joy can often be tainted by the harsh reality of online trolling. This was the unfortunate experience of Abdu Rozik, a famous influencer and singer, who recently announced his engagement to 19-year-old Amira. While the news was met with a wave of support from his celebrity friends, it also drew a barrage of cruel and hurtful comments from netizens, highlighting a persistent issue in our society: ableism faced by people with disabilities. Abdu Rozik, a 20 years-old celebrity influencer, little person (person with dwarfism), has built a successful career and amassed a significant following. Sharing his joyous engagement news should have been a time of pure celebration. Instead, it revealed the darker side of social media, where bias and prejudice still thrive. Responding to the negativity, Abdu released an official statement expressing his dismay. "The negative comments and those who are making fun of me and being nasty is very sad," he said. "Imagine Amira and her family are reading these comments." His words underscore the emotional impact that such trolling can have, not only on the individuals directly targeted but also on their loved ones. Abdu’s statement sheds light on the broader issue of societal attitudes towards people with dwarfism. "We went public after a lot of discussion and reluctance," he revealed, "and unfortunately it is going from best news to a nightmare." Reflecting on his past, Abdu admitted, "I used to be ashamed of who I am and my size, and many families used to hide their children who are like me. But now allhamdulillah, I and all the others like me have to stand tall and be accepted." People with dwarfism have historically been marginalized in the media, often cast in roles designed for comic relief rather than serious or nuanced portrayals. This harmful stereotype reduces their complex identities to mere punchlines, perpetuating misconceptions and fostering a culture of ridicule. Characters with dwarfism are frequently depicted as childlike or buffoonish, reinforcing a narrow and demeaning view of their capabilities and humanity. This trend not only denies actors with dwarfism the opportunity to showcase their talents in diverse roles but also impacts societal attitudes, contributing to the ongoing stigma and discrimination they face in everyday life. It is crucial for the media to move beyond these outdated portrayals and represent people with dwarfism with the dignity and respect they deserve. Understanding and Respecting People with Dwarfism To combat the ignorance and prejudice that Abdu and others like him face, it's crucial to educate ourselves about dwarfism and how to interact respectfully with those who have it. Here are some important points to consider: Language Matters: Avoid using outdated and offensive terms like "m*dget." Instead, use "person with dwarfism," which is respectful and accurate. Respect and Courtesy: Treat individuals with dwarfism with the same respect and courtesy you would anyone else. They are no different in terms of their cognitive abilities and deserve equal respect. Combat Stereotypes: People with dwarfism are often unfairly infantilized or used for comedic relief in media portrayals. Recognize and challenge these stereotypes to promote a more accurate and respectful understanding. Educate Yourself: Lack of knowledge often leads to unintentional exclusion or insensitivity. By learning about dwarfism, you can become a more informed and supportive ally. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

The rise of Vitiligo representation in media is smashing conventional beauty standards < Back Health, Gender, News Celebrating World Vitiligo Day: Stories of Indian creators with Vitiligo The rise of Vitiligo representation in media is smashing conventional beauty standards MMS Staff 25 Jun 2024 4-min read Millions of people worldwide live with Vitiligo, a condition characterised by the loss of skin pigment. This condition causes the skin to turn white or appear lighter than one's natural skin tone due to the destruction of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. On World Vitiligo Day, we celebrate the stories of creators with vitiligo who use their platforms to spread awareness and promote self-love, showing the world that beauty comes in all forms. But before that, a quick fact. According to this study done by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the prevalence of vitiligo in India ranges from 0.25% to 4% among dermatology outpatients, with higher rates reported in certain regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan, reaching up to 8.8%. Despite this, there remains a significant lack of awareness and representation, leading to social stigma and psychological challenges for those with the condition. Many people with vitiligo face ostracization, bullying, and severe social and psychological impacts, particularly young women who are pressured to meet conventional beauty standards. However, representation and inclusivity in the media and fashion industries are slowly beginning to change perceptions. In recent years, the media has begun to embrace a more inclusive and diverse representation of beauty, prominently featuring individuals with vitiligo. This shift marks a significant departure from the past, where vitiligo was often stigmatised and misunderstood. Influencers like Winnie Harlow have played a crucial role in this transformation, using their platforms to challenge conventional beauty standards and inspire others. Harlow's rise to fame as a model with vitiligo has opened doors for many others, showcasing the unique beauty and resilience of those with this skin condition. Television shows, fashion campaigns, and social media platforms are now more frequently highlighting the stories and experiences of individuals with vitiligo. This increased visibility helps to normalise the condition and educate the public, paving the way for more acceptance and understanding. Campaigns by major brands, such as the inclusive beauty initiatives by Dove and CoverGirl , have also contributed to this positive trend by featuring models with vitiligo in their advertisements. But despite these advancements, there is still a long way to go. Continued efforts to amplify the voices of people with vitiligo in the media are essential for dismantling stereotypes and promoting a broader definition of beauty. By celebrating diversity and advocating for inclusivity, the media can play a powerful role in changing perceptions and supporting those with vitiligo to live their lives without fear of discrimination or prejudice. Here are the stories of six remarkable Indian creators who are redefining beauty standards and breaking down the stigma associated with vitiligo. Mamta Mohandas The last decade has been incredibly challenging for South Indian actress Mamta Mohandas , as she battled Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer. True to her style, when she shared her journey with vitiligo, it was with a poetic and hopeful tone that embraced her condition. In a selfie shared with her two million followers, she wrote, “Dear sun, I embrace you now like I have never before. So spotted, I’m losing color… I rise even before you every morning, to see you glimmer your first ray through the haze. Give me all you’ve got for I will be indebted, here on out and forever by your grace.” Aastha Shah Aastha Shah is a Mumbai-based content creator who has captivated audiences with her empowering messages of self-acceptance. Diagnosed with vitiligo at 8, Aastha faced many challenges, including societal judgement and a difficult medical journey. “For years, I struggled with feeling beautiful because of my vitiligo. Today, I walked the red carpet at Cannes, not in spite of my vitiligo but because of it. I want to show everyone that beauty comes in all shades and patterns,” says Aastha. She boasts a following of one million on social media, where she shares her journey and motivates others. Aastha recently made history as the first Indian with vitiligo to walk the red carpet at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. Prarthana Jagan Prarthana Jagan , a model and social media influencer based in Bangalore, developed vitiligo at the age of 11. She faced severe bullying and social isolation due to her condition, which greatly affected her self-confidence. Prarthana wore makeup to conceal her vitiligo for many years until a life-changing surgery in 2016 helped her embrace her natural skin. “I stepped out bare-skinned into the sunlight and I just can’t express what I felt on that day. I felt sunlight on my bare skin after years. It was just a moment of self-reflection,” Prarthana recalls in a post on her Instagram. Prarthana now shares her story on Instagram and YouTube, inspiring others to embrace their unique appearances. She has modelled for Elle and Grazia and works with Blunt Model Agency, continuing to raise awareness about vitiligo. Jasroop Kaur Singh Jasroop Kaur Singh , a London-based British-Indian model and influencer, creatively expresses her journey with vitiligo through her artwork. Jasroop combines her passion for art with advocacy, creating pieces that highlight the beauty of vitiligo. Despite facing bullying and social isolation growing up, she found confidence in herself and has worked with Vogue, Burberry, and other high-end fashion brands. Kirpal Bhogal Kirpal Bhogal is a London-based content creator and advocate for vitiligo awareness. Known for his vibrant personality and stylish content, Kirpal uses his social media presence to educate others about vitiligo and promote inclusivity. His efforts have garnered a supportive community that celebrates individuality and encourages open conversations about skin conditions. Ranjani Ramakrishnan Based in Chennai, India, Ranjani Ramakrishnan is a motivational speaker and digital creator who has been very vocal about her journey with vitiligo. Diagnosed at age 11, Ranjani struggled with self-acceptance but came to embrace her unique appearance. She now works with brands promoting inclusivity and models for Another Life Collective . Shantanu Gosavi Shantanu Gosavi , an Ahmedabad-based model and influencer, uses his platform to challenge stereotypes about vitiligo. A graduate in Textile Design from NIFT Gandhinagar, Gujarat, Gosavi is trained in Kathak and works as a freelance textile designer, photographer and model. He began his modelling journey with local brands, and now collaborates with photographers and fashion brands. The stories of these creators serve as a reminder that beauty is diverse and multifaceted. On World Vitiligo Day, we celebrate their stories and dedication to spreading awareness and representation. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Ira reflects on parenting, mental health, and emotional silences in Indian homes < Back Health, Parenting, News “In 27 Years, I’ve Never Seen My Mother Cry”: Ira Khan Ira reflects on parenting, mental health, and emotional silences in Indian homes MMS Staff 5 Aug 2025 4-min read In the very first episode of Parenting Aaj Kal, a new Hindi podcast by Much Much Media, mental health advocate Ira Khan shared something striking. “In 27 years, I’ve never seen my mother cry,” she said. Ira Khan on Parenting Aaj Kal The moment was quiet but heavy. It touched on something deeply familiar to many Indian families: the absence of emotional expression, the silence around vulnerability, and the quiet expectation to always “hold it together.” Ira Khan has publicly spoken about her own mental health journey before. But on Parenting Aaj Kal, she went deeper, describing what depression looked like for her and how it was received at home. “I would either sleep for 18 hours or not at all. Until I stopped eating food, I didn’t ask for help,” she shared. Ira also shared the mental health journey of her parents actor Aamir Khan and producer Reena Dutta. What stood out in Ira’s reflection wasn’t the lack of love, but the emotional distance that can exist even in supportive households. “My mother never cried. Not for a movie, not for a death, not for anything. And four weeks ago, I realised this for the first time. So I called her and asked: what is happening?” Reena’s response? “My therapist told me to show my emotions, but I was scared you would be scared again.” This fear, of burdening children, of making them anxious, leads many Indian parents to suppress their own emotions. But in doing so, they often model emotional silence as the norm. And children learn quickly: Don’t cry. Don’t talk. Don’t feel too much. The mirror effect: when parents don’t emote, children won’t either Dr Vibha Krishnamurthy, host of Parenting Aaj Kal and one of India’s most respected developmental paediatricians, emphasises how emotional expression, or the lack of it, shapes a child’s emotional literacy. Dr Vibha Krishnamurthy on Parenting Aaj Kal “Parents tell me, ‘In our time, we never had therapy. We had thappad (slap) therapy or hawaii chappal (slipper) therapy.’ But what is therapy, really?” she asks with a wry smile. “If we never talk about sadness, grief, anxiety, how will children learn that these feelings are okay to have?” This learned emotional suppression, often seen as resilience, can be counterproductive. It can delay intervention, isolate children, and perpetuate cycles of silence. Depression doesn’t always look like sadness Child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr Pervin Dadachanji, who joins the episode alongside Ira and Dr Vibha, offers clinical insights into how mental health often goes unnoticed in young people. “Children don’t always ‘look’ sad when they’re struggling,” she explains. Dr Pervin Dadachanji on Parenting Aaj Kal “It often shows up as irritation, boredom, or disinterest. What we dismiss as bad behaviour or laziness could be a sign of emotional distress.” She recounts how many parents come in when their child’s academic performance drops, not realising that emotional wellbeing is often the underlying issue. “The first thing I ask is: what’s going on in this child’s life?” Why conversations around mental health in families matter At its heart, Parenting Aaj Kal is a show about making space. For questions, for emotions, and for a kind of parenting that’s rooted in presence not perfection. The show is created in Hindi, specifically to reach Indian households that might shy away from conversations around mental health because they feel “too Western” or “too dramatic.” Ira’s honesty, paired with the clinical wisdom of Dr Vibha and Dr Pervin, makes the first episode a powerful listen. It’s not just about one person’s story... it’s about breaking patterns many of us have grown up with. As Ira puts it: “There’s too much pressure to be good at everything. To make my parents happy, I thought I had to come first. Earlier, it was 50 people. Now, because of social media, it feels like I’m competing with the whole world.” Dr Pervin and Ira Khan on Parenting Aaj Kal Rewriting what strength looks like at home In India, we’ve long mistaken emotional withholding for maturity, and silence for strength. But children, like all of us, need models. If their parents never express sadness, they might grow up believing that feeling sad is wrong. If their parents never cry, they may think crying is a weakness. And if no one ever talks about what’s hard, they may never learn how to ask for help. As Dr Pervin says: “There’s a saying in English: Name it to tame it. If we talk about our feelings, they don’t spiral. But if we don’t express them, no one will know, and support never arrives.” Watch the Full Episode Parenting Aaj Kal is available in Hindi on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and Spotify The first episode features Ira Khan, Dr. Vibha Krishnamurthy, and Dr. Pervin Dadachanji, and is a must-watch for parents, educators, and anyone looking to make emotional safety a part of everyday life. Because maybe the most powerful thing we can give our children… is the permission to feel. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

We examine what constitutes good and bad representation as per SC's latest guidelines < Back Disability, Media Disability Humour vs Disabling Humour in media We examine what constitutes good and bad representation as per SC's latest guidelines MMS Staff 10 Jul 2024 3-min read In a landmark moment in Indian history, the Supreme Court on July 8 issued a series of guidelines for the depiction of disabled and neurodivergent individuals in films, TV shows and online content. The guidelines are for creators, directors, producers and various other stakeholders in media that play a role in creating and disseminating films and content in the public domain. One of the sections in the final document released by the SC, titled Caveat, clearly laid down the distinction between disability humour and disabled humour. While the former ‘challenges conventional wisdom about disability,’ the latter ‘demeans and disparages persons with disability,’ the order said. Despite the history and the obsolescence of the medical model, humour is not universally denounced in the context of disability. It is now being increasingly used as a sophisticated literary medium for engagement with the society by persons with disabilities. It familiarises the society with the lived experiences of persons with disability, thereby dispelling prejudicial myths, and sensitising people. Challenging notions of ‘otherness’ or ‘inferiority’ associated with persons with disability, humour creates an equal space. Comics with disabilities use self-deprecating humour to critique the social order and counter stereotypical images101. They bring stereotypes to the fore and rely on them in order to dispel them. Humour is a reclamation of the public discourse by persons with disabilities who are pushing back against the dominant, ableist narratives around disability. Below, we’ve broken down the key differences (with examples) of what constitutes disability humour and what falls under disabling humour. Disability humour is: Empowering. It pokes fun at the social barriers and stereotypes faced by disabled individuals. It does not make fun of the disabled individuals themselves. Inclusive. It includes disabled people in the creation process and its delivery, ensuring authenticity and respect. Educational. It highlights the misconceptions that exist, and seeks to educate the audience about disability through humour. Positive in its representation. It shows disabled characters as multidimensional individuals, capable of having a sense of humour and leading fulfilling lives. Contextually sensitive. It avoids reinforcing negative stereotypes or perpetuating harmful narratives about this diverse community. Disabling humour, on the other hand, is: Harmful. It pokes fun at disabled individuals, or their disabilities, reinforcing negative stereotypes and prejudices. Exclusionary. It is often created and disseminated by non-disabled individuals - or individuals with little to no exposure to disabled lives - without the input or perspective of the disabled community. Ignorant. It reflects a lack of understanding about the realities of living with a disability. Negative in its representation. It portrays disabled characters in a negative light, often as objects of pity or ridicule. Insensitive. It lacks empathy and is insensitive to the impact of the humour on disabled individuals and the broader disability community. To sum it up, the guidelines say that humour can be a powerful tool for positive representation and awareness when done respectfully and inclusively. On the other hand, humour that reinforces harmful stereotypes and further marginalises disabled individuals should be avoided in media representation. Here are some examples of both: Disability humour: A disabled comedian making fun of inaccessible public spaces to highlight the absurdity and need for change. TV shows like ‘Speechless,’ where disabled characters are portrayed with depth and their humour is rooted in everyday experiences. Comedians like Maysoon Zayid, Josh Blue, and Hannah Gadsby use their talent and sense of humour to break down stereotypes and talk about their lived experiences. Disabling humour: Jokes that rely on mocking disabled individuals, such as making fun of someone’s gait or speech, to demean and belittle them. Using disabled characters as the butt of jokes, like in the Hindi film Golmaal where a speech disfluency is used for cheap laughs without any real representation. And finally, here’s some examples of good and bad representation: Shows such as ‘Special,’ which was created by and stars a gay man with cerebral palsy, using humour to explore real-life challenges. Comedy sketches such as ‘Nanette’ by Hannah Gadsby where humour is used to teach the audience about disability. And on the other side of the fence, there’s Dr Evil's sidekick, Mini-Me, in ‘Austin Powers,’ is routinely ridiculed for their size. The Golmaal series, which makes fun of speech disfluency, deafness, blindness and other disabilities through its crass humour. The Bollywood film Housefull 3 in which the three lead characters fake their disabilities. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

The gender gap in autism diagnosis: Why so many autistic girls slip through the cracks < Back Gender, Neurodiversity Why autistic women and girls often go undiagnosed The gender gap in autism diagnosis: Why so many autistic girls slip through the cracks Aditi Gangrade 18 May 2024 3-min read Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has long been associated with boys. This misconception, fueled by outdated research and societal biases, leads to a concerning reality: autistic girls are diagnosed four times less often than autistic boys according to a 2017 study by the Autism Research Centre [Baron-Cohen et al., 2017]. This disparity has significant consequences, delaying access to crucial support and hindering their ability to thrive. Understanding the reasons behind this underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis is critical to providing equitable and inclusive healthcare systems for autistic women and girls. Masking the difference: One key factor is "social camouflaging." Driven by a strong desire to connect, autistic women and girls develop exceptional abilities to mimic social behaviors. Imagine this: you spend your life feeling like a chameleon, meticulously blending into your surroundings. You observe social interactions, mimicking what seems "normal" even though it feels foreign. This constant performance can be exhausting, but it's the only way you know how to navigate a world that doesn't quite make sense. That, in a nutshell, is what life can be like for many autistic women and girls. Research by Dr. Sarah Cassidy suggests that autistic girls are more likely to engage in social camouflaging than boys, further complicating diagnosis. Beyond the Stereotypes: Traditional diagnostic tools, shaped by research primarily focused on autistic boys, often miss the diverse ways autism presents in people across the gender spectrum. These tools might emphasize restricted interests in specific topics or repetitive behaviors like flapping hands. However, autistic individuals might have a wide range of interests, and repetitive behaviors can manifest in more subtle ways like intense focus on routines or organization. This mismatch between symptom presentation and diagnostic criteria, coupled with societal conditioning that leads girls and women to internalize their struggles, can lead to missed diagnoses. The Internal Storm: Many autistic women experience their challenges internally. Sensory overload might manifest as anxiety or meltdowns behind closed doors. Social difficulties can translate into depression or a constant feeling of social awkwardness rather than outward outbursts. This internalization makes it difficult for others to recognize the underlying cause of these struggles, further delaying diagnosis. A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry [Lai et al., 2011] found that autistic girls are more likely to experience internalizing symptoms like anxiety and depression compared to autistic boys. This underdiagnosis has a profound impact on the lives of autistic women. Studies suggest they are more likely to experience mental health challenges, unemployment, and social isolation. The Impact of a Delayed Diagnosis: A late or missed diagnosis has significant consequences. We might struggle with social relationships, navigating social situations, experience chronic anxiety, or have difficulty managing daily routines. This can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, being misunderstood, inadequacy, low self-esteem, and a sense of not belonging. Research published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders [Chown et al., 2019] found autistic women are twice as likely to report experiencing an eating disorder compared to neurotypical women. Difficulties with social communication and challenges adapting to workplace environments can make it difficult for autistic women to find and maintain employment. A study by the Autism Self Advocacy Network [Autism Self Advocacy Network] found that autistic adults are four times more likely to be unemployed compared to the general population. Breaking the Cycle: So, what can be done? Awareness is key: Learn about the diverse presentations of autism in females. Organizations like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network [ASAN] and IHeartAspies provide excellent resources. Advocate for Inclusive Diagnostic Tools: Research efforts should focus on understanding autism across the gender spectrum. This can lead to more comprehensive diagnostic tools that capture the diverse experiences of autistic women and girls. Promote Self-Advocacy: Encourage girls and women who suspect they might be autistic to seek evaluation and support. Resources from organizations like the Autistic Women's Network [AWN] can be helpful in this journey. Challenge Societal Expectations: Break down stereotypes surrounding autism, and promote understanding of how it can manifest differently in women and girls. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

If you’re a sucker for good representation and haven't watched Bridgerton yet, where have you been < Back Neurodiversity, Media, Disability Bridgerton: Disability representation reviewed by Aditi Gangrade If you’re a sucker for good representation and haven't watched Bridgerton yet, where have you been Aditi Gangrade 26 Aug 2024 1-min read I often see filmmakers use disability and neurodiversity as a plot to tell stories where the disability is shown as “the problem” that needs to be overcome. More often than not, these portrayals are ableist. But Bridgerton flipped the narrative. For those of you who don’t know the disabled and neurodivergent characters in Bridgerton, let's have a look: Lord Remmington, played by Zak Ford-Williams, is a wheelchair user. The actor is also disabled in real life. Dolores Stowell and her mother Lady Stowell are both deaf and played by the deaf actors Kitty Devlin and Sophie Wooley. They communicate in British Sign Language in the show. Francesca Bridgerton played by Hannah Dodd is said to be autistic-coded. And her sister Eloise Bridgerton played by Claudia Jessie appears to be ADHD-coded. Simon Basset played by Regé-Jean Page is shown to have speech disfluency as a kid and is ostracised by his own father for having a disability. Lady Danbury, played by the actor Adjoa Andoh uses a cane in the show and lives with dyspraxia in real life. King George lives with a mental illness and is played by James Fleet. And lastly, this character seemed very neurodivergent when I watched the show and when I looked him up I found out he has ADHD and dyslexia - Luke Newton who plays Colin Bridgerton. All these characters are a natural part of society in the show. Their identities, their experiences are just naturally a part of the story. And that's something I really expect from more shows. Even if your stories and plots are about something totally different, show the natural diversity that exists all around us. Include people who've been marginalised and badly represented in the past. Represent them well. The power of films and shows is immense. Imagine a kid with a disability watching shows on OTTs and TV and seeing a character who's like them. It just changes how people grow up thinking about themselves. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Ira Khan tells Much Much Media why Gen-Z is the loneliest generation ever < Back Community, Health, Parenting Why Gen Z feels so alone Ira Khan tells Much Much Media why Gen-Z is the loneliest generation ever MMS Staff 7 Jan 2026 5-min read In the first episode of Much Much Media’s chat show, Parenting Aaj Kal, Ira Khan says something a lot of Gen Z has felt in their chest for years but rarely had the words for: loneliness isn’t an exception anymore. It ’s becoming the default setting. And what’s unsettling isn’t just that young people feel lonely. It’s how quietly it has become normal. When loneliness becomes normal, it stops sounding like an emergency. It starts sounding like personality. Like a flaw. Like “maybe I’m just bad at friends.” But that story doesn’t hold up, not when you look at what has changed around young people, what has been taken away, and what has been made harder to access. “If you’ve never played like that…”: the kind of childhood many Gen Z kids didn’t get A generation ago, the script for childhood friendships was simpler: you’d go downstairs, find kids, play, fight, make up, repeat. Not perfectly. But often enough that you learned the messy basics of being with other people. In the episode, Ira names what’s missing now: the everyday, unstructured kind of play that teaches you how to belong without requiring a calendar invite. She puts it in a line that lands like a bruise: “If you’ve never played like that, how would you know you’re missing anything?” That question matters because it explains something many adults misunderstand about Gen Z loneliness. You can’t “just go make friends” if you didn’t grow up in environments where friendship happened easily: in parks, corridors, sports grounds, building compounds, school buses, streets, without supervision, without productivity goals, without a performance pressure to be “likeable.” If those spaces disappeared before you got to use them, connection starts to feel like a skill you were never taught. The loneliness is real — and the numbers back up the feeling Gen Z isn’t imagining this. Global data has been pointing in the same direction. A Meta–Gallup global survey across 142 countries found that 24% of people worldwide reported feeling “very” or “fairly” lonely, nearly one in four. And importantly, young adults aged 19–29 showed the highest levels, with 27% reporting feeling very or fairly lonely. Another Gallup measure (using a different question) found 23% of people worldwide said they felt loneliness “a lot of the day yesterday.” The point is: if loneliness is showing up at this scale, it’s not just an individual problem. It’s a social condition. And that’s exactly what Ira’s framing pushes us toward. A bigger, more systemic question: What happened to community? Why this isn’t just about screen time Yes, digital life shapes how Gen Z connects. But the deeper shift is what digital life replaced, and what society failed to build alongside it. In many places, kids today have: less unstructured time more academic pressure and packed schedules fewer accessible “third places” (spaces outside home and school where you can just exist) more safety fears (often real) that keep parents from letting kids roam and a culture that treats rest and play like something you must earn So friendships don’t form through “bumping into each other.” They form through planning, and planning requires time, energy, transport, money, and emotional bandwidth. That’s not neutral. That’s a filter. It decides who gets connection easily and who has to work for it. When “hanging out” becomes a logistical project Research is increasingly documenting a shift away from in-person social time. An OECD report notes that across OECD countries, longer-term trends show people are meeting in person less often, while digital interactions have become more frequent. The same report points out that people are often more likely to stay in touch remotely than meet up in person. For example, in European OECD countries, weekly remote contact outpaces weekly in-person get-togethers. This matters because digital connection can be meaningful but it doesn’t always meet the same needs as shared physical space: the micro-moments, the awkward silences, the inside jokes that happen when you’re simply around each other long enough. And when in-person connection becomes rare, it can start to feel… intense. Like a date. Like pressure. Like something you must perform well. That’s how loneliness can deepen: not only do you feel alone, you start to fear the very closeness you want. Loneliness isn’t a personal failure. It’s a public health issue When large numbers of people feel disconnected, the consequences aren’t just emotional. They show up in bodies and communities. The US Surgeon General’s 2023 advisory describes loneliness and isolation as a major health concern, linking lack of social connection to increased risk of physical and mental health harms. It also notes that the mortality impact of social disconnection is comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. That framing is important because it shifts the question from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What’s happened to our social fabric?” And once you see it that way, the “solution” can’t just be individual confidence hacks. It has to include social infrastructure: the spaces and conditions that make connection possible. Why this hits disabled and neurodivergent young people even harder Social issues don’t hit everyone equally. Loneliness intersects with disability, neurodivergence, chronic illness, mental health, and poverty not because disabled people are inherently lonelier, but because the world often blocks access to connection. The Surgeon General’s advisory notes that studies find high prevalence of loneliness and isolation among people with poor physical or mental health and disabilities, alongside financial insecurity and other structural vulnerabilities. Now layer that onto everyday reality: public spaces that aren’t physically accessible social plans built around sensory overload stigma that makes people treat disabled and neurodivergent kids as “too much” or “too difficult” bullying and exclusion in schools fewer inclusive community activities that don’t demand masking or social performance For many disabled and neurodivergent young people, loneliness isn’t about being “bad at socialising.” It’s about living in a world where social spaces weren’t designed with them in mind. When we talk about Gen Z loneliness, disability and neurodivergence can’t be an afterthought. Accessibility is community-building. So what do we do with this? Ira’s point in Parenting Aaj Kal isn’t nostalgia for a “better” childhood. It’s a prompt to notice what vanished, and to stop blaming young people for adapting to that loss. If loneliness has become Gen Z’s default, then the question becomes: how do we rebuild the conditions where belonging is ordinary again? Not through perfect friend groups. Not through forcing extroversion. But through small, structural shifts: protecting unstructured time in childhood (and honestly, in adulthood too) investing in accessible community spaces: parks, libraries, youth centres, hobby clubs designing social environments that don’t punish difference (sensory needs, communication styles, mobility needs) treating friendship and community as real life infrastructure, not an optional extra Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

A candid conversation with two siblings about rivalry, breaking societal norms, and understanding each other < Back Gender, Neurodiversity Sisterhood with Neurodivergence: Shreya & Roshni’s lived experience A candid conversation with two siblings about rivalry, breaking societal norms, and understanding each other Swara Swami 23 Aug 2024 11-min read Shreya (33, she/ her, neurodivergent) and her sister Roshni (30, she/ her, allistic) speak to Much Much Spectrum about their growing up years. Interviewer: Can you both share a little bit about yourselves and your relationship as sisters growing up and how has your bond evolved over the years? Shreya: Well, I think I should start with the story of this picture. When Roshni was just born, she was on Amma's lap. Actually she's supposed to be on Amma's lap, but I have pushed her away and she's crying and I have taken my place on my mother's lap and I'm feeling very happy about it. So essentially that kind of sums up our childhood. We used to fight a lot. Because that's what siblings do. But we also used to chill a lot together and play on the computer and have Shrewsbury biscuits while we did it. So we had a lot of these rituals, like making midnight snacks together and things like that. But we also fought a lot. But when I moved to Ahmedabad to do my master's, I think that is when we became really close when we started living in different cities. Roshni would come and visit me and stay with me on campus and then in the various other cities I have lived in. So I think that is when we became super close and we both are the first person we go to. At least for me, she's the first person I go to with any major issue. We are very similar yet very, very different people. So I think it is a little complementary and also we have a lot of shared interests. So we definitely bond on that. Roshni introduced me to Taylor Swift. We, in general, all of us enjoy food that is one of the things we bond over. And dogs, books. Yes. A lot of books. Interviewer: Roshni, do you also have something to share about your relationship with Shreya? Roshni: I definitely agree with most of the things that she has said. We were not very close while growing up because I'm the younger sister. Distance makes the heart grow fonder, so I genuinely feel like we had those special special moments when we would be cooking together, rather, Shreya would be cooking and I would be cleaning. Before I became a teenager, things were quite different. I was a little bit scared of her, but we got very, very close and actually became friends after she moved out. Shreya: I forgot to say that I was not nice to Roshni when we grew up. I thought, “Oh, you must bully your younger sister. And it was… not nice. It's an important thing to mention because there are not really very great templates around there for sibling relationships, which are not opposing genders. Roshni: On that note, as Shreya mentioned in the picture, she has pushed me off. You can see I'm crying. And she's very, very happy. Interviewer: Could you tell us about your neurodivergence discovery and the journey? Shreya: It was mostly me reading up. I would say it is thanks to the Internet, but because I was reading a lot about the Autism Awareness Month and I read up a couple of articles and I thought that those behavioural traits in adults correlated to our father. I spoke to Roshni about it, and when we spoke to Amma about it, we were like, ‘Oh my God, this makes sense.’ But this was a year before I asked to be assessed and then I didn't think about it. But it was like a niggling thing in the back of my head. Then I started correlating that behaviour across generations of my family. So then I asked my therapist if she could do an assessment and she was like, sure. And I didn't know what to think going in. And I was like, I don't know why I'm asking for this because do I even deserve to take this? What is this? What am I thinking? So then when the results came, it surprised both of us. I think also my therapist, because she'd been my therapist for four years. Once I got assessed as being autistic, I read up a lot and that also made a lot of sense to me. I understood a lot about my childhood and I read a bunch of books, starting with ‘Aspergirls’ by Rudy Simone and then ‘Unmasking Autism’ by Devon Price. I would share all of this with Roshni and Amma and they would be like, yes, okay, this makes a lot more sense. About a year or so later, I took on the ADHD assessments and that also came about and I was like, this is very true. Interviewer: So Roshni, how has Shreya's discovery/ diagnosis changed your dynamic with her? Roshni: I think this conversation is when I think I really started thinking about autism. And so many years of the last few years have been spent in just educating myself. I am also a music educator. I work in a private capacity, so I do work with a few children with diverse needs. So her assessment really, really did help in a professional sense for me to kind of work with the kids that I do, but, wow, sorry, I'm… I feel like I'm blabbering. Shreya: No, you're not. It's okay. It's completely fine. What you're saying is very relevant. Roshni: I think the biggest thing in the beginning was to educate myself and read up more, so whatever material and resources Shreya was sharing, I was making it a point to read them. It really did make a lot of sense. I think she tried to point it out to me, do you remember when this happened when I was younger or this happened? I was like, no, but I was younger than her. So I barely remember, you know, her experiences and meltdowns, so to speak. But it really made a lot of sense the way she is. Since then, I think I've just wanted to be her advocate, especially, you know, in our immediate family because not everyone is as proactive about educating themselves. I think I'm a lot more sensitive to how she is feeling, especially any sort of overstimulation. I feel like when she's around, it's like my ears are also picking up these frequencies. I need to ensure that, for example, at home when we are sitting together and watching TV anytime the volume spikes, the volume is reduced to ensure that she's feeling okay. Interviewer: Shreya, do you have something to share also? Shreya: No. Oh, I would just say that it has just become, I think, better because the understanding is now deeper. And I feel like I can be a very confusing person to be around for a lot of people, but I feel like the assessment has helped understand some of it. This may be something that Roshni has been doing for a long time, but I feel like now she is… someone you can rely on without having to explain too much when you are overstimulated in, say, family gatherings or generally just sitting at home and watching TV. So that aspect really helps because there are very few people in my immediate family or immediate surroundings who actually understand it. So it is nice to not have to open your mouth and explain it. Interviewer: So how do you both support and care for each other? Shreya: We were visiting family in Delhi in December. And it was super social for about a few days. And the last day I just, I could barely talk. I was like, I'm done. I'm done with this world. So Roshni really took on even talking to the cab guy and telling him where we had to go. And there were some physical tasks to be done. She kind of took it on. She also got me coffee. A lot of that is a big way that she has, I think, shown care towards me. I don't want it to be like Roshni is in service to me constantly, but I feel like I also like it when I'm staying with her. Then I make her chai and meals because for me doing things is showing love and care. Roshni: I think if you have ever met Shreya, especially in a house setting, it doesn't matter whose house it is, you'll definitely have multiple cups of chai, which she will make, and there will be at least one snack. Whatever is there in the kitchen, she'll make something. And that is her love language. It has always been, I think, like all of the midnight snacks also. She bakes, she cooks, for it doesn't matter who comes through the door. Actually, most people. With us also, there are weekly FaceTime calls. Sometimes we call each other and give each other the most random updates. And sometimes we just exist on FaceTime together for about 15 minutes to an hour. She is my council, she is my lighthouse. I feel like the reason why I knew I could marry my partner is because Shreya had approved of him. Any major decisions in life, I feel like I need to run by her because she has a very x-ray type scan view of things. And it's great to have such a clear voice sometimes telling you what you might not want to hear or see. So that way I feel like that's how we care for each other. Shreya: When Roshni’s partner is not there, we are just each other’s extended plus ones. And Roshni is also nicer to people than I am. So it's nice to go with her to family functions. People are nice to me also, obviously, but I feel like they're a little scared of me. But everyone is always nice to Roshni, so it's nice to be around her. But I think we balance each other out. There's a fair amount of overstimulation that happens for Roshni also. We have left a lot of weddings and gone to cafes and restaurants and just sat there. Interviewer: Despite being the elder sister, Shreya, you mentioned that your sister is often seen as the older one because of her presentation. Tell us more about the differences in your presentation. Neurodivergent people are often considered way younger than their age because of how we present. How do you both feel about this? Shreya: First of all, we both wear big glasses and we both have short hair. And we both speak in a similar manner. So lots of people also say that we look similar. But I think this really stood out to us once when we were in Chennai visiting some relatives and somebody was like, ‘Oh, I'm pointing to Roshni asking if she's the older one’, which was very strange and she's gotten annoyed and that has just increased in occurrence since then. But because I also almost always have coloured hair, I don't know if people are seeing that and seeing things because of it. And now I have a lot of tattoos. But I don't know why that points to making me look younger. But yeah, it's strange because I'm like, what are the markers of it? Roshni: Yeah, I think it could be, I mean, some people also think it's the height thing. I'm fractionally taller than Shreya. In the beginning I used to get a little annoyed. Because I was like, ‘Oh my God, but look at my face.’ I have such a baby face, but I don't care about it anymore. It's fine. Shreya: That is true. Roshni: Yeah, and I think the way we dress also has something to do with it. I am quite boring in my fashion on a day to day basis. Like when Shreya is around, things get brightened up as a proxy effect, I guess. But because she's always, she expresses herself sometimes through her clothing and the hair colour. The last one of the weddings we went to in 2021 or 22, some people asked Shreya that, and she had a bunch of green hair at that time. It was green, right Shreya? Shreya: Whose wedding? Roshni: This was Varun's wedding. Shreya: Varun's wedding? Roshni: Yeah. Shreya: I had some coloured hair, but it wasn't green. I think it was purple or pink. Life stage wise, as per traditional societal life stage, I am not married and I don't have kids and I'm 33 and there are very few people I know my age who are like this, which is very strange in India. But I feel like that also shows. And the tonality of talking. But I feel like this may also play into why people think I am younger in general. It doesn't make sense. Interviewer: Can you both share a message to families/ siblings where one is neurodivergent and the other is not. Roshni: I'll just repeat what I said earlier, which is, educating oneself is the most important thing you can do as the first step. If anyone in your family is assessed, provide support in whatever way is possible. And, I once brought this up in therapy actually, I don't know sometimes how to help my sister or how to advocate for her. I feel like in some situations it's very sticky and the best piece of advice she's ever given me is to just ask her what she wants. So I think educating oneself and ensuring that you are asking questions and giving the support that a person needs and not just kind of preemptively giving them support based on what you think they need. Shreya: Asking, as you said, but also being willing to listen. Because I feel like when a neurodivergent sibling says something, a lot of what we say is very, very surprising to people because of the experiences, because if everyone has experienced the same thing, the way people experience it can be very, very different. So I feel like sometimes being generally better at listening and believing the other person that, okay, yeah, this is what they got out of the situation… I think that really helps. But I feel like if someone has grown up with a neurodivergent sibling in any case, they would always know that there are a lot of things that their family does, or that they would do as siblings, that are not usual and that are anyway designed to cope with the other person's neurodivergence. So like you have already been living with it. Now when we think about our family and we realise we are so strange, all of us, and we all do these things also that are so strange. And I realised when I talk to my friends' families that they don't have naturally strange families. So… these things. So, just embrace it and believe in the other person. That's all. Shreya is a media professional and podcaster. You can check out her podcast 'At Odds' here . Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

On International Music Day, Swara shares how music shaped her life & inspired her mission to heal others < Back Neurodiversity, Gender The power of music - my path to self-discovery and healing On International Music Day, Swara shares how music shaped her life & inspired her mission to heal others Swara Swami 1 Oct 2024 3-min read I come from a family deeply rooted in music. Even before I could talk, I was singing. My family would often record me as a baby, capturing my little voice on cassette tapes. Music became my solace, my constant companion through the ups and downs of life. During my school years, I was bullied relentlessly, and music became my refuge. It helped me heal. Over the years, I trained in various styles — Hindustani, film music, Western, contemporary — and even dabbled in Carnatic music, though it never quite resonated with me. When I lived in Shanghai, singing and acting became my source of confidence. Even though my peers thought I was different, they noticed my talent in the arts. I was part of a group called ‘Sur Shanghai,’ where we performed regularly, and I began to see how the arts could empower others just like they had for me. That’s when I first considered a career in music. My journey took me to KM Music Conservatory in Chennai, but I quickly realised Western Classical wasn’t for me. I also didn’t feel supported there, and during the holidays, I would help my mother — an accomplished singer herself who worked with disabled children. That’s when I discovered my love for working with children with disabilities. Around the same time, Berklee College of Music visited my school, and I was drawn to their Music Therapy program. I knew that was where I wanted to be. To pursue this dream, I moved to Malaysia to attend the International College of Music (ICOM), which offered a transfer program to Berklee. However, it wasn’t an easy path. I struggled with anxiety and often felt like I wasn’t good enough. I failed semesters due to a lack of accommodations and support, and I couldn’t secure a scholarship, despite getting admitted to Berklee twice. But once I finally made it to Berklee, everything changed. I became part of the Berklee Indian Ensemble, recorded an EP that was nominated for a Grammy, and performed alongside artists like Vijay Prakash and Shreya Ghoshal. I also joined The Lotus Sound, a circle singing group, and we recorded an EP and performed at the International Acapella Festival in Moscow. Despite these successes, I faced setbacks too. I didn’t pass my Music Therapy major on my first try but succeeded the second time. While I was finding my footing academically, I lost my mother to cancer, and my mental health took a hit. A discouraging comment from a professor further eroded my confidence. For five years, I couldn’t pass my Music Therapy exam, which prevented me from securing a job as a Music Therapist in the U.S. In 2020, when the pandemic hit, I returned to India and started my own Music Therapy program at a trust in Nashik, Maharashtra. It was a step forward, but I wasn’t done learning. In 2022, I began a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Expressive Arts Therapy at Lesley University. This hybrid program allowed me to explore all forms of art, not just music. It also helped me rediscover my confidence. I acted in a play, sang at open mics — things I never imagined I could do. Now, I dream of building my own private practice, where the arts are a core part of the healing process for others, just as they have been for me. Music has been a constant in my life, and I hope it continues to be a source of strength and healing for those who need it most. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS