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ऑटिज़म के बारे में सही जानकारी और जागरूकता का प्रयास (विडियो की यूट्यूब लिंक के साथ) < Back Neurodiversity, Hindi, Parenting ऑटिज़म के बारे में 6 अफ़वाहें - 6 myths commonly heard about autism ऑटिज़म के बारे में सही जानकारी और जागरूकता का प्रयास (विडियो की यूट्यूब लिंक के साथ) MMS Staff 18 May 2024 3-min read ऑटिज़म एक न्यूरो डेवलपमेंटल कंडिशन है, लेकिन इसके बारे में सही जानकारी और जागरूकता की कमी है। भारत और अन्य कई देशों में, ऑटिज़म को अभी भी एक कमी या खराबी के रूप में देखा जाता है। ऑटिज़म इंटरनेट पर सर्च करने पर हजारों वीडियो और आर्टिकल्स मिलते हैं, जिनमें से कुछ सही जानकारी प्रदान करते हैं, लेकिन बहुत सारी जानकारी गलत और भ्रामक होती है। इस ब्लॉग में, हम ऑटिज़म के बारे में छह आम अफ़वाहें दूर करेंगे और आपको सही जानकारी देने का प्रयास करेंगे। 🚫 मिथक 1: ऑटिज़म एक बीमारी है ✅ सच: ऑटिज़म कोई बीमारी नहीं है बल्कि एक डिसेबिलिटी और न्यूरो डेवलपमेंट कंडिशन है। ऑटिस्टिक दिमाग़ का विकास और कार्यप्रणाली नूरो टिपिकल दिमाग़ से अलग होती है। यह फर्क कोई कमी नहीं है, बल्कि एक अलग तरीके से दुनिया को देखने और समझने का तरीका है। 🚫 मिथक 2: ऑटिज़म ठीक हो सकता है ✅ सच: यदि ऑटिज़म कोई बीमारी नहीं है, तो उसका इलाज भी नहीं हो सकता। ऑटिस्टिक लोगों को आपके समर्थन और शायद थेरेपी की जरूरत हो सकती है, जैसे स्पीच थेरेपी, ऑक्युपेशनल थेरेपी इत्यादि। लेकिन ऑटिज़म को ठीक करने की बात करना गलत है। और ऑटिज़म को एक व्यक्ति से निकालना मुमकिन नहीं। समाज में ऑटिस्टिक लोगों को ठीक करने की कोशिश करने के बजाय उन्हें अपनाएँ और उनकी सहायता करने के तरीके ढूंढें। 🚫 मिथक 3: ऑटिज़म सिर्फ बच्चों में होता है ✅ सच: ऑटिस्टिक बच्चे बड़े होकर ऑटिस्टिक वयस्क बनते हैं। कई लोगों को उनके ऑटिज़म के बारे में बड़े होने के बाद या उनके बुढ़ापे में भी पता चलता है। उदाहरण के लिए, इस यूट्यूब वीडियो की होस्ट अदिति गंगराड़े खुद एक ऑटिस्टिक युवती हैं। इसलिए, यह सोचना कि आटिज्म सिर्फ बच्चों में होता है, गलत है। 🚫 मिथक 4: ऑटिज़म सिर्फ लड़कों को होता है ✅ सच: ऑटिज़म लड़कियों, महिलाओं, ट्रांसजेंडर लोगों, और नॉन-बाइनरी लोगों में भी होता है। ऑटिज़म का लक्षण हर व्यक्ति में अलग-अलग हो सकते हैं। ऑटिज़म के लक्षण एक व्यक्ति के देश, संस्कृति, पालन-पोषण, लिंग, और भी कई कारकों से अलग हो सकते हैं। 🚫 मिथक 5: सभी ऑटिस्टिक जीनीयस या सवॉंट होते हैं ✅ सच: सभी ऑटिस्टिक लोग जीनीयस या सवॉंट नहीं होते। यह स्टीरियोटाइप फिल्मों और मीडिया के कारण फैला है, जैसे "रेन मैन" फिल्म में दिखाया गया है। ऑटिज़म एक स्पेक्ट्रम है और हर ऑटिस्टिक व्यक्ति अलग होता है। यदि आपने एक ऑटिस्टिक व्यक्ति से मुलाकात की है, तो इसका मतलब यह नहीं है कि आपने सभी ऑटिस्टिक लोगों को समझ लिया है। 🚫 मिथक 6: ऑटिज़म कोई दोष के कारण होता है ✅ सच: ऑटिज़म आनुवंशिक है और पीढ़ी दर पीढ़ी परिवार में चला आ रहा हो सकता है। यह केवल एक अलग होने का तरीका है, जैसे हमारी हाइट, वेट, जाति, लिंग अलग-अलग होते हैं, वैसे ही। कुछ लोग कहते हैं कि ऑटिज़म वैक्सीन्स या किसी डिफेक्ट के कारण होता है, लेकिन यह बातें वैज्ञानिक रूप से प्रमाणित नहीं हैं। सही जानकारी का प्रचार करें ऑटिज़म के बारे में सही जानकारी और जागरूकता फैलाना महत्वपूर्ण है। चाहे स्कूल, ऑफिस, कॉलेज या कोई और जगह हो, वहाँ ऑटिज्म के बारे में एडवोकेट करें। सही जानकारी दें ताकि ऑटिस्टिक लोगों को समाज में एक जगह और इज़्ज़त मिले। इस ब्लॉग को अपने परिवार, दोस्तों, और व्हाट्सऐप ग्रुप में शेयर करें और ऑटिज़म की तरफ अपना नजरिया बदलें। ऑटिज़म के बारे में अधिक जानने के लिए और सही जानकारी प्राप्त करने के लिए, विश्वसनीय स्रोतों और विशेषज्ञों की सलाह लें। इसके साथ ही, ऑटिस्टिक लोगों की सुनें और उनके अनुभवों से सीखें। इस ब्लॉग को विडीओ के रूप में देखने के लिए नीचे दिए गए चित्र पर क्लिक करें Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

This mother is paving the way for neurodiversity inclusion < Back Neurodiversity, Parenting, Community How this community is ending isolation for Neurodivergent youth This mother is paving the way for neurodiversity inclusion MMS Staff 14 Jan 2025 4-min read In a world where loneliness and isolation are all too common for neurodivergent individuals, Special Hangout stands as a much-needed beacon of hope, offering connection and belonging to neurodivergent individuals and their families. Founded by Ritu Vig, a dedicated mother of two sons — one neurotypical and one neurodivergent — this grassroots organization is creating waves by addressing a critical need: spaces where children with disabilities and their families can simply be themselves without fear of judgment or exclusion. A Personal Journey to Inclusion Ritu's journey into creating Special Hangout is deeply personal. Raising two sons, Kritin (22), who is neurodivergent, and Pranit (17), Ritu faced the challenges of balancing the needs of her children in a world that isn’t always accommodating. As they were growing up, I always felt that Pranit had a lot of friends and a lot of venues to go to with his friends and play with and spend time with them. Whereas, Kritin always longed to have those friendships. He had some friends in school, but if you'd ask me, after coming home there was nowhere he could go. Even if he did go downstairs with his brother Pranit and his friends, he was called names, he was bullied. “There was a point where Kritin would watch the children play from our balcony, and ask me, ‘Can I go down now? I promise I won’t trouble them!’” Ritu recalls, her voice tinged with the emotion of a mother who only wanted to provide her son with the same social experiences that every child deserves. But it wasn't just Kritin who was affected. Pranit, too, struggled with the emotional toll of witnessing his brother's exclusion. It was in these heart-wrenching moments that Ritu realized: This isn't just about my son — this is a universal issue for neurodivergent children everywhere. And so, Special Hangout was born — initially as small playdates, and now blossomed into an inclusive community with over 375 families involved. The Power of Togetherness The organization started small, but it didn't take long for the need for safe, inclusive spaces to become apparent. Events began to take shape, crafted with an understanding that every neurodivergent individual is different, and every family’s needs are unique. From Dandiya nights to movie screenings, every event is thoughtfully planned to accommodate sensory sensitivities, ensure comfort, and, most importantly, create a space where these young people and their families feel seen, heard, and valued. “We have to think about everything — sound levels, lighting, food preferences,” Ritu explains. For example, during our Diwali party, there were no crackers, because we know that many children are sensitive to them. At a movie screening, we made sure that if any child wanted to walk around, or touch the screen, or bring their own food, it was completely fine. There was even a trampoline for them to use when they needed a break. This attention to detail has made Special Hangout events feel like more than just social gatherings — they’re opportunities for neurodivergent children to have experiences that are both fun and comfortable, fostering connection and belonging without pressure. Breaking Myths, One Art at a Time A key part of the Special Hangout’s mission is debunking misconceptions about neurodivergence. Ritu highlights one of the most damaging myths: that neurodivergent individuals are “incapable” of accomplishing things. “It’s heartbreaking to hear people say that if a child can’t talk, they can’t write stories or paint beautiful pictures,” Ritu says. “We’ve seen these children achieve things that put us all to shame. They are just wired differently, they are different, not less.” One powerful example of this came during a painting exhibition at Kala Ghoda, where neurodivergent artists showcased their stunning works. “We sold artworks for around Rs 5 lakh to 6 lakh,” Ritu beams. “And what was incredible was the number of people who, without knowing us, walked in and bought several pieces. Even judges from the High Court bought paintings. It’s a testament to the fact that art transcends boundaries and appreciation goes beyond expectations.” Overcoming Challenges: Building Trust and Acceptance Despite the growing success, Ritu admits that gaining the trust of parents has been a major challenge. “It’s difficult to convince parents that these events are just as important as therapy,” she says. Many parents still prioritize structured therapy over social experiences, but Ritu emphasizes that Special Hangout’s unstructured, relaxed approach allows both the children and their parents to relax. “We don’t want to put any pressure on the children to perform. If they want to play cricket during a painting session, they can. We’re not concerned with structure, we’re focused on creating real connections,” Ritu explains. And it’s working. Parents are slowly but surely seeing the benefits of giving their children the freedom to just be without any constraints. A Vision for a More Inclusive Future As Special Hangout continues to grow, Ritu’s vision is clear: to create more safe spaces for neurodivergent individuals and their families across India. The organization’s “Hangout Buddies” program, which connects neurodivergent people with neurotypical buddies from all over India, is one step toward achieving that goal. From coffee dates to cultural celebrations, these buddy pairs are breaking down the walls of isolation and creating friendships that transcend difference. But Ritu doesn’t stop there. “I want Special Hangout in every city, street, and corner of Mumbai — and then beyond,” she says with unwavering determination. “There’s a huge demand from parents in the suburbs, and it’s time we expand. The need for these spaces is urgent, and I believe Special Hangout can be the solution.” Ritu Vig’s tireless work is changing the landscape of inclusion for neurodivergent individuals and their families. But as she says, “We need society’s acceptance. The ableism must go. We have to realise that the society belongs equally to them as much as it does to the neurotypicals/abled individuals.” Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

How the ADA has improved lives for disabled folx, and the challenges faced in enforcing this law < Back Disability, Neurodiversity, News 34 years of the ADA: Celebrating a milestone in disability rights How the ADA has improved lives for disabled folx, and the challenges faced in enforcing this law MMS Staff 25 Jul 2024 4-min read The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed July 26, 1990, marking a significant milestone in the fight for civil rights for people with disabilities. This landmark legislation protects individuals with visible and invisible disabilities from discrimination, ensuring they have equal rights and opportunities. The journey to the ADA One of the critical issues with disability-related acts is that while they aim to cover all disabilities and address various challenges faced by disabled individuals, the enforcement of these laws often depends on individual litigation. Simply put, unless someone files a case, courts are not obligated to mandate accessibility measures. This means the implementation of the law is not actively overseen unless people fight for their rights, which can be both time-consuming and expensive — an effort many disabled individuals cannot afford. The historic significance of the ADA Despite these challenges, the ADA remains a historical piece of legislation. An entire community came together to advocate for the passage of the ADA, culminating in a powerful demonstration known as the “Capitol Crawl.” Activists gathered at the Capitol Building in Washington, DC, and crawled up the steps to highlight the need for accessibility and inclusion. This act of reclaiming space became a pivotal moment in disability rights history. US Senator Tom Harkin, the author of the final bill, delivered his speech to the Senate in sign language, ensuring it was accessible to his deaf brother and highlighting the importance of inclusivity. President George HW Bush signed the bill into law, declaring, “Let the shameful wall of exclusion finally come tumbling down.” The impact of the ADA Thirty-four years later, the ADA has made several essential accessibility measures mandatory. Some disabled individuals express gratitude for the ADA's mandates, which include: Disabled parking lots Ramps Wheelchair seating in cinema halls Better access to employment and education These changes have significantly improved the lives of many, but there is still much work to be done. The ADA's reliance on individual litigation for enforcement means that not all aspects of the law are uniformly implemented. Advocacy and awareness remain crucial to ensuring the continued progress of disability rights. “Yes, things are better with the A.D.A. We have elevators, ramps and closed captioning. But the ADA is not a magic wand. (It) can only do so much to correct inequalities in a society that is uncomfortable with disability,” said disability rights activist Alice Wong in this story in the NYT. The ADA explained The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in several areas, including employment, transportation, public accommodations, communications and access to state and local government programs and services. As it relates to employment, Title I of the ADA protects the rights of both employees and job seekers. While the US Department of Labor's (DOL) Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) does not enforce the ADA, it does offer publications and other technical assistance on the basic requirements of the law, including covered employers’ obligation to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants and employees with disabilities. The ADA applies to all private businesses with 15 or more employees. It also covers government employers, employment agencies, and labour unions. The ADA also had the effect of increasing accessibility and mobility for people with disabilities by mandating automatic doorways, ramps, and elevators to accommodate wheelchairs in public places and businesses. Title I of the law prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities during job application procedures, hiring, firing, the pursuit of career advancement, compensation, job training, and other aspects of employment. Title II applies to state and local government entities. This part of the law further extends the protection from discrimination to qualified individuals with disabilities. It requires that these individuals have reasonable access to services, programs, and activities provided by the government. Title III prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities regarding access to activities at public venues. This includes businesses that are generally open to the public, such as restaurants, schools, daycare facilities, movie theatres, recreation facilities, and doctors’ offices. Title IV oversees telephone and television access for individuals with hearing and speech disabilities. Common carriers, such as telephone companies, are required to establish interstate and intrastate telecommunications relay services (TRS) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Looking forward While the ADA has laid a strong foundation, there is always room for improvement. It's essential to continue the conversation about disability rights and push for further advancements in accessibility and inclusivity. How has the ADA made things better for you or someone with a disability you know? Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Sophie Morgan’s film - Fight to Fly - to come out on Channel 4 July 22 < Back Disability, News, Media New documentary on issues faced by disabled air travellers Sophie Morgan’s film - Fight to Fly - to come out on Channel 4 July 22 MMS Staff 19 Jul 2024 2-min read British TV presenter Sophie Morgan’s documentary on the issues faced by disabled people - particularly those with restricted mobility - when travelling by flights is set to release July 22 at 9 pm BST on Channel 4. The film - chronicling the experiences of multiple disabled travellers - follows Morgan as she campaigns for more awareness and sensitivity toward disabled people using mobility devices such as wheelchairs to travel by air. Morgan’s mission to make air travel equitable for all started early last year when, on a flight back from USA to the UK, her carrier damaged her wheelchair. At the time, her social media posts about the incident went viral , prompting her to start a campaign that is now called Rights On Flights. Asked what kinds of problems disabled people often face on flights, Morgan said: “It starts from the minute you book: sometimes airlines can be really difficult and refuse you travel if your wheelchair is a certain height, or a certain width, or over a certain weight, or if your battery is a certain size. And that's if the website is particularly accessible digitally anyway — this is not just about wheelchair users, there are problems across the board for all types of people, with different types of disabilities.” While the documentary itself chronicles experiences ranging all the way from people having to drag themselves to the aircraft toilet to others having to starve and dehydrate themselves while on board to yet others whose mobility aids have suffered damage. Morgan points out that it’s not even necessarily only the fault of the staff being under-trained - the entire system is, in fact, ableist. India, too, is fighting the good fight against ableism in air travel. Last year, on a flight to Mumbai from Delhi, activist Virali Modi was left behind in an aeroplane for almost 40 minutes after all other passengers had deplaned. The campaign has seen Morgan visit Downing Street as well as the White House, calling for better legislation to ensure a better air travel experience for people with disabilities. As for the documentary, it covers the campaign from the beginning, the reason for its establishment, Morgan’s aims and goals, as well as the harrowing journeys of other wheelchair users, who have gone undercover and filmed their experiences for the purpose of the film. “I'm delighted that (the campaign) was successful, but I'm gutted that it happened — it's quite shocking what we uncover, but in many ways it's not shocking. Every time these stories come out, the non-disabled community kind of go 'oh my gosh, that is shocking, I had no idea' and we're like 'we're trying to tell you! This happens to us all the time!’ Morgan said. Ever since starting the campaign, Morgan adds, some airlines have taken note while others still haven’t. “I hope the airline industry sits up and takes notice, I hope they realise that we aren't going anywhere, that they have to meet the problems head-on. There's a real opportunity here for an airline to lead the way and be better, and I can't wait for that airline to really step up and embrace that.” Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

New guidelines aim to end stereotypes and promote accurate portrayals of disabilities in media < Back Disability, Media, News SC issues landmark guidelines for disability representation in films New guidelines aim to end stereotypes and promote accurate portrayals of disabilities in media MMS Staff 8 Jul 2024 4-min read One of the foundational pillars of an affirming attitude towards disability and neurodivergence is good media representation. Until the depiction of disabled and neurodivergent people in our films, TV series and social media is accurate, respectful, and empathetic, not much in society's attitude towards this community can change. Looks like the Supreme Court has taken note. In a landmark ruling on July 8, a Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud established comprehensive guidelines to prevent stereotyping and discrimination of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in visual media, including films and documentaries. The petition, filed by disability rights activist Nipun Malhotra, was driven by concerns over derogatory and discriminatory remarks towards PwDs in the film ‘Aankh Micholi.' The film included terms like “ atki hui cassettes ” (stuck cassettes) and “ bhulakkad baap ” (forgetful father) to describe individuals with speech and memory disabilities. ‘Aankh Micholi,’ released in 2023 to largely unfavourable reviews , is a film about a family whose various members live with disabilities and health conditions, including deafness, stammering and night blindness. The plot is an ableist ‘comedy of errors’ that rests on using disability and neurodivergence as elements of comic relief. Unfortunately, what a lot of filmmakers fail to realise is not only is the disabled community a low hanging fruit for comedy and all other kinds of slapstick content that shows them in bad light for a cheap laugh, their improper representation gives rise to society's developing misgivings about the community’s actual potential. The Supreme Court rightly emphasised that creators must provide an accurate representation of disabilities rather than mocking or mythifying them. Justice JB Pardiwala, part of the bench, described the judgment as "path-breaking," denouncing the use of stigmatising terms like “cripple” and “spastic.” Historical context and the need for change Indian films, TV serials, ads, and news media have long used disabilities and neurodivergent conditions as a source of comic relief, often at the expense of the dignity of persons with disabilities and neurodivergent conditions. Characters with disabilities have been frequently depicted in a manner that elicits pity or frames them as overtly inspirational, contributing to a skewed and harmful portrayal of disability. This stereotypical representation reinforces negative perceptions and stigmatisation, marginalising an already vulnerable group. The Supreme Court's latest judgement Chief Justice Chandrachud, authoring the judgement, drew attention to the harmful myths perpetuated by visual media about disabilities. The Court noted that depicting persons with disabilities as “super-cripples” implies that they must possess extraordinary abilities, thereby marginalising those who do not fit this stereotype. The bench stated, “Stereotyping is an antithesis to dignity and non-discrimination,” highlighting the judiciary’s evolving role in safeguarding individual rights and addressing complex intersections of disability, gender, and mental health. Modern social model vs the medical model The judgement emphasised a shift from the medical model, which views disability as a personal tragedy, to the modern social model. The social model treats disabilities as a result of societal barriers rather than individual deficits. Chief Justice Chandrachud highlighted that stereotypes and a mockery of disabilities arise from a lack of familiarity and inadequate representation of persons with disabilities in mainstream discourse. Distinguishing humour types and their impact The Court made a critical distinction between “disabling humour” and “disability humour.” Disabling humour demeans persons with disabilities, while disability humour seeks to better understand and explain disability. The context, intention, and overall message of media content should be considered before concluding whether remarks are disparaging. Guidelines for inclusive representation The Supreme Court issued several guidelines for creators of films and visual media content: Language and terminology: Insensitive language is contrary to the dignity of persons with disabilities. Terms like “cripple” and “spastic” should be avoided, as should terms like “afflicted,” “suffering,” and “victim.” These terms contribute to negative self-image and societal marginalisation. Accurate representation: Creators must strive for accurate representation of medical conditions to prevent misinformation and perpetuation of stereotypes. Misleading portrayals can reinforce harmful misconceptions about disabilities. Diverse realities: Visual media should depict the diverse realities of persons with disabilities, showcasing not only their challenges but also their successes, talents, and contributions to society. This holistic portrayal helps to normalise disability and reduce stigma. Stakeholder involvement: The bench emphasised the importance of disabled participation in the creation of media, stating, “‘Nothing about us without us’ principle is based on the promotion of participation of persons with disabilities and equalisation of opportunities. This principle must be practised in constituting statutory committees and inviting expert opinions for assessing the overall message of films and their impact on the dignity of individuals under the Cinematograph Act and Rules.” The Court went on to remind the government of its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to incorporate the lived experiences of disabled individuals. In March, the Supreme Court had requested the Central government's response to a plea filed by disability rights activist Nipun Malhotra in the same matter. Malhotra's complaint was that the film and its trailer contained derogatory references to persons with disabilities (PwDs). The issue escalated to the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court dismissed Malhotra's plea, stating that excessive censorship should be avoided. The Supreme Court's ruling marks a significant step towards dismantling harmful stereotypes and promoting inclusive representation of disabilities in visual media. It now remains to be seen just how many producers, directors, screenwriters and social media creators adhere to these guidelines. If you’re any of the above and unsure where or how to begin, consider engaging with disability advocacy groups that can provide insights about disabled lived experiences. A lot of nonprofits and independent self-advocates conduct training and sensitisation programs, which could potentially give insights into the community’s realities. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Matt Cain's life changed at 50 when he uncovered the cause of years of shame and burnout < Back LGBTQIA+, Neurodiversity, Work I thought being gay made life hard. Turns out autism played a part too Matt Cain's life changed at 50 when he uncovered the cause of years of shame and burnout MMS Staff 13 Jun 2025 4-min read When British writer and broadcaster Matt Cain received an autism and ADHD diagnosis at 50, it felt like the missing piece of a lifelong puzzle finally locked into place. After decades of internal struggle, social confusion, and being misunderstood by peers, bosses, and even himself, Cain could finally name what had always made him feel out of step with the world. For Cain, a working-class gay man growing up in 1980s England, the bullying, shame, and social isolation were relentless. Teachers dismissed him as “overemotional.” Schoolmates mocked his walk, his voice, his love of Madonna. He was called names like “poof” and “pansy”, and subjected to physical violence. Cain assumed these attacks were rooted in homophobia. But with a late autism diagnosis, a more complex truth came into view: what if the world wasn’t only reacting to his queerness, but to his neurodivergence too? At the intersection of queer and neurodivergent Cain’s story is not unique. A growing body of research highlights a strong correlation between queerness and neurodivergence, particularly autism and ADHD. One large-scale study published in Nature Communications (2020) found that autistic people are significantly more likely to identify as LGBTQIA+ than their allistic peers. Another study in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders showed that autistic people are over eight times more likely to be gender-diverse. But despite these patterns, the world is still alarmingly unprepared to support people who live at the intersection of these identities. Diagnostic criteria, therapy models, school systems, and even Pride events often reflect neurotypical and heteronormative assumptions. Many LGBTQIA+ people report receiving their neurodivergent diagnoses late in life, if at all. The masking that queer people do to “pass” or stay safe can closely resemble the masking that autistic people are forced into to survive neurotypical environments. For those like Cain, the overlap is invisible until it becomes undeniable. Misread and misjudged Cain describes his childhood through a lens familiar to many late-diagnosed neurodivergent adults. He had obsessive interests (Madonna, Star Wars), sensory sensitivities (to sound, touch, and smell), and suffered severe anxiety. He engaged in “stimming” long before he had a word for it, repeating phrases and musicalising dialogue as self-soothing behaviour. But these traits weren’t recognised as part of a neurological profile. Instead, they were chalked up to personality flaws, or worse, weaponised as evidence of his queerness being inherently “too much.” His emotional outbursts were dismissed as “hysterical”, his perfectionism ridiculed as “girly”, and his need for routine ignored in high-pressure media workplaces. In adulthood, Cain coped by drinking, performing queerness in exaggerated ways, and chasing validation. Despite becoming a published author and successful journalist, the cost of masking and constant rejection - from both the publishing industry and his peers - left him burnt out, overwhelmed, and still searching for a language to explain himself. When diagnosis comes too late Cain's autism and ADHD diagnoses came after a family member began their own assessment process. Curious, he researched autism beyond the stereotypes, and saw himself in the nuanced, lived experiences of other autistic adults. He learned about traits like rejection sensitive dysphoria, echolalia, and emotional dysregulation. He saw how alcohol dependency, risky sex, and difficulty with professional boundaries were not just personality quirks, but symptoms of undiagnosed neurodivergence paired with the trauma of growing up queer in a hostile world. His diagnosis brought relief - but also grief. He mourned the years he’d lost to shame, to misunderstanding, to trying to be someone he wasn't. All the times I was criticised for behaviours I didn’t realise were symptomatic of my autism. I feel profound grief for the past. The joy and justice of naming it Cain now actively embraces his neurodivergence. He uses weighted blankets to regulate his nervous system, avoids overwhelming sensory environments, and asks for clear, direct communication at work. He’s also switched agents and stopped attending events that make him mask. Crucially, he no longer tries to hide his joy. He stims freely, sings to himself, speaks about his diagnosis publicly, knowing that being openly autistic will invite both compassion and stigma. But visibility, he insists, matters. Especially now, as conversations around autism risk being co-opted by harmful narratives of “overdiagnosis.” In truth, many queer neurodivergent people - especially women, trans people, and people of colour - go undiagnosed for decades because their traits are ignored, misread, or pathologised through other lenses. What Matt Cain’s story teaches us Cain’s journey shows us the emotional toll of being doubly marginalised. Of growing up in systems where neither his queerness nor his neurodivergence was understood, let alone supported. But it also shows us what becomes possible when people are given the language, tools, and community to understand themselves. In sharing his story, Matt Cain joins a growing movement of neuroqueer individuals reclaiming their narratives. They are pushing for representation that is not just inclusive but affirming. They are challenging the clinical, heteronormative frameworks that fail them. They are telling us: we exist. We’ve always existed. And we’re done being told we’re too much. Source: The Guardian Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Exploring the intersection of gender, sexuality, and neurodivergence where fluidity and individuality thrive < Back Neurodiversity, Gender, LGBTQIA+ Being atypical isn’t a deficit: My Neuroqueer identity Exploring the intersection of gender, sexuality, and neurodivergence where fluidity and individuality thrive Soumya Mishra 28 Jul 2024 5-min read A few years back when I attended a workshop, one of my fellow participants addressed me by “they” pronoun, and I felt incredibly seen at that moment. Up until then, I was internally struggling to accept the non-binary messiness of gender, even though growing up I have had plenty of instances when I felt like a square peg being forced into a round hole situation. When it comes to discourses around gender, sexuality or neurodivergence, we often come across the word “spectrum.” The idea behind “spectrum” is that it encompasses a range of understandings, views and opinions on these subjects. But what if, instead of a range, it was a vast universe where everyone could be whatever they wanted? Each individual is a unique star and can be their most authentic self here. That’s what the neuroqueer space means to me. My relationship with gender, sexuality and neurodivergence is deeply neuroqueer. The neuroqueer space is a radical space where non-conformist notions concerning gender, sexuality and neurodivergence are celebrated, which is in contrast to a world where cis-heteronormativity and neuronormativity are enforced. Being neurodivergent means seeing and interacting with the world in atypical ways. And since neurodivergence affects how I see and interact with the world, it has also shaped my understanding of gender and sexuality. Usually, gender identity is constructed from a neurotypical lens, completely disregarding neurodivergent perspectives. However, neurodivergent folx experience a queering of the mind. So neatly defined identity labels based on neurotypical standards such as “boy,” “girl,” “man” and “woman” mean differently to many of us. Even as an adult, there are parts of me that are more childlike than others around me. This entails how I experience and express my feelings, my innate curiosity or whimsical behaviour. And this has invited comments and infantilisation from those around me. For instance, I’m often told I seem much younger than my age because my behaviour doesn’t coincide with what is considered age-appropriate. So from my neuroqueer perspective, even the construction of cis-gender identity is complex, and sometimes, it is closer to the idea of queerness as it defies what is perceived as “normal.” Now, while I started using “she/ they” pronouns initially to be more inclusive and break the gender binary, overtime it has become more than that. “They” can be both singular and plural; it’s fluid. I’m an individual whose identity has been shaped by numerous experiences, which can be truly understood by understanding the context. To me, “she/ they” makes room for all that and more. So even though I’ve been socialised as a “woman,” there are moments when I feel the term does not encapsulate all my feelings. As neuroqueerness celebrates fluidity, it has given me the space to explore the idea of gender away from neurotypicality. In addition, by virtue of my asexuality, I experience little to no sexual attraction. But I’m romantically attracted towards two or more genders, which is atypical in this allonormative society that reinforces compulsory sexuality and heteronormativity. My asexuality requires no “fixing.” Like my neurodivergence, my asexuality, too, subverts the normative culture, but both of them are described in terms of “lacks.” While asexuality is commonly described as an absence of sexual attraction, neurodivergence is defined as having social impairments. But, being atypical isn’t a deficit. Feminist theorist Bell Hooks wrote: “‘Queer’ not as being about who you’re having sex with (that can be a dimension of it); but ‘queer’ as being about the self that is at odds with everything around it and that has to invent and create and find a place to speak and to thrive and to live.” Building on her argument around queerness, when queer theory and the neurodiversity paradigm inform one another, there is a further queering of the body and the mind. In this resulting transformative space, which is the neuroqueer space, normative understanding of gender, sexuality and neurodivergence can be challenged. My neuroqueer bodymind isn’t fixed or singular, nor does it exist in a vacuum. It has been shaped by numerous experiences and can only be understood by situating my experiences contextually. In their book Authoring Autism, M Remi Yergeau eloquently argues, “Neuroqueering signifies a generous and inter-bodily gesturing, one that postures beyond brains, bones, and dermis; one that waves in a plurality of identities, orientations, affective stances, and lived experiences, modes ranging from autism to deafness to trauma to asexuality.” Simply put, to me, neuroqueering is resisting neatly defined categories and creating a space where even the messier parts of myself can thrive without giving in to binaries. Neuroqueerness problematises neat identity labels, making room for fluidity and plurality of identities, orientations and lived experiences by disrupting cis-heteronormativity and neuronormativity as well as defying societal expectations around what is considered “normal” and “abnormal.” My lived experiences and the journey I’ve undertaken to reach here are complex and difficult to disentangle from one another. “Neuroqueer” is all-encompassing without restrictive labels and diagnoses. It’s a space where I can make sense of my neuroqueer bodymind, connect with folx who’ve similar lived realities, and be a part of a community to experience a sense of belongingness. Glossary: Neuroqueer - It is both an identity and a verb. An individual who diverges from dominant societal norms, considers them to be neurologically queer, rejecting normative ideas around gender, sexuality and neurocognitive functioning. Neuronormativity - Upholding a set of rules, values and ideas around neuro-cognitive functioning which suggest that certain types of behaviour are normal, while others are not. Cis-heteronormativity - The idea that being cis-gender and heterosexual is the norm and such people are superior in society. Neurotypicality - The state of not being associated with neurodivergent behaviours. Asexuality - A type of sexual orientation wherein people experience little to no sexual attraction towards others, but may or may not engage in sexual activity. Allonormative - The idea that all human beings experience sexual and romantic attraction, and that’s the norm. Soumya Mishra (she/ they) is a neuroqueer development sector professional with over 6 years of work experience, who is primarily interested in leveraging digital mediums to amplify marginalised voices, bridge existing gaps, promote inclusivity and accessibility. Their work and approaches are informed by their lived experiences. Building a community and fostering a sense of belongingness have been crucial in Soumya's work approach. As a personal project, they're also building a podcast — Atypical Dikkatein — to chronicle the stories of queer-disabled folx in India as these stories are often relegated to the margins. Follow Soumya on LinkedIn Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

From begging to coaching: Shabana’s role in shaping her daughter’s kickboxing dream < Back LGBTQIA+, Parenting, News Trans mom raises adopted daughter to be gold-winning kickboxer From begging to coaching: Shabana’s role in shaping her daughter’s kickboxing dream MMS Staff 6 Oct 2024 2-min read Meet Shabana, a 65-year-old transgender woman from Mysuru, India who went from begging on the streets to raising her adopted daughter, Bibi Fathima, into a gold-medal-winning kickboxer. Here’s the real story behind how they made it happen. Years ago, Shabana faced a lot of challenges. Surviving on the streets of Mysuru, her life was tough. Then, when her cousin abandoned four daughters, Shabana made a decision that would change everything — she adopted them, despite having almost nothing herself. One of those girls was Bibi Fathima, who had an unusual passion: kickboxing. At just 12, Fathima was determined to pursue her passion, even breaking open her piggy bank to enroll at a local kickboxing academy. Shabana, despite her limited means, supported her every step of the way. What started as a dream turned into a serious pursuit. Training hard every day, Fathima’s talent quickly caught the eye of her coaches. And it wasn’t long before the medals started rolling in. She’s now racked up 23 medals in various district, state, and national competitions. Her latest win is a gold medal at the 16th Karnataka State Kickboxing Championship. Fathima isn’t stopping at state competitions. She’s gearing up for even bigger tournaments in 2025, with plans to take on the national and international kickboxing scene. Shabana, always by her side, is ready to support her through whatever comes next. Fathima’s goals are clear; she’s already dreaming of one day becoming a coach herself. This mother-daughter duo is already making waves, and they’re not slowing down anytime soon. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

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

Understanding our world’s most urgent environmental challenges < Back Climate 8 things to know about climate change this World Environment Day Understanding our world’s most urgent environmental challenges MMS Staff 6 Jun 2024 2-min read This World Environment Day, it’s time to get real about climate change. Our planet is hitting some scary milestones, and - basically - it’s now or never. Here are eight climate change facts that we can't ignore any longer: Record temperatures: Seriously, 2023 was the hottest year on record. The heat is not just uncomfortable — it’s proving deadly for people and the planet. This trend is like a giant warning sign that we need to cut down on greenhouse gases. Check out the stats and freaky details on the EU’s climate monitoring service . If this doesn’t signify a clear and pressing need to address global warming, we don’t know what will. 2. Rising sea levels: As polar ice caps continue to melt, sea levels are rising at an alarming rate, threatening to reshape our coastlines and displace coastal communities around the world. Head to NASA’s sea level change portal to find out more. 3. Increased weather extremes: From devastating hurricanes and wildfires to severe droughts, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are going up, showing us how important it is to have resilient infrastructure and emergency preparedness. These incidents are chaotic and costly. Get the full low down here: NOAA’s extreme weather tracker . 4. Biodiversity loss: Climate change is a big threat to biodiversity. Animals and plants around the world are in serious danger. As habitats disappear faster than free Wi-Fi, entire species are going extinct, and countless others are at an increased risk of extinction due to habitat loss and changing ecosystems. Learn more at the World Wildlife Fund website. 5. Economic impact: Climate change is expensive — like seriously expensive. From ruined crops to rebuilding infrastructure after climate-related disasters, the economic hit is sometimes irrecoverable, affecting global economies and individual livelihoods. Bloomberg has the economic forecast on climate change costs . 6. Energy revolution: And now for a (little) bit of good news — renewable energy is on the rise, and it’s our best shot at a clean future. Solar power, wind energy, and other sustainable sources are key to reducing the use of fossil fuels. Renewable Energy World tells you how. 7. Innovative solutions: Technologies like enhanced geothermal systems, super-efficient solar cells, and heat pumps are taking the lead in providing cleaner energy alternatives and improving energy efficiency. They’re making green energy cheaper and more accessible. MIT Technology Review carries the latest in climate tech. 8. Global action required: Combating climate change requires global cooperation. International agreements and local initiatives are both crucial in addressing the many challenges posed by climate change. Learn how you can make a difference at United Nations Climate Action . This World Environment Day, let’s pledge to be more mindful of our environmental impact and take actionable steps towards sustainable living. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS