Breaking Barriers: How Social Media is Redefining Neurodiversity in India
In the 21st century, technology is woven into every aspect of our lives. From buying groceries to finding information—or even connecting with others—social media has made things more accessible than ever. While it has its downsides, its advantages cannot be overlooked.
For the neurodivergent community, social media has become more than just a tool—it’s a lifeline. It offers a space to connect, share experiences, and access valuable resources in a world where understanding and acceptance are still evolving. This isn’t just beneficial for neurodivergent teens and adults; parents, too, have found a supportive network, allowing them to navigate challenges with guidance from those who truly understand their journey.
Even in India, a country where acceptance for the neurodivergent population has been a slow curve, social media has helped the population find information that helps them to learn about their experiences which had not been fully captured by the majority of the current research literature and online health sites.?
Instagram has become one of the most powerful platforms for the neurodivergent community, providing a space to showcase talents, embrace self-discovery, and receive the confidence and love they deserve.
Autistic content creators like @TheBiggishBoy and @PranavBakhshi have used Instagram to not only share their personal journeys but also inspire others to pursue their dreams. Pranav, India’s first model with autism, openly documents his experiences, breaking stereotypes and proving that neurodivergent individuals can thrive in creative industries.
Even at Potentials, we have our very own Instagram star, @Bhavyaa. Passionate about music, Bhavya uses the platform to share his talent, inspiring those around him to pursue what they love without hesitation or fear of the spotlight.
For parents, accounts like @AutismTalesWithMugdha offer invaluable support, helping them navigate the ups and downs of raising neurodivergent children. These spaces foster a sense of community, where parents can connect with others who truly understand their journey, share emotions, and offer a helping hand when needed.
In the realm of storytelling and media representation, Aditi Gangrade, co-founder of Much Much Spectrum, is working to mainstream narratives around mental health, neurodiversity, and disability in India. Her efforts aim to increase visibility and acceptance for neurodivergent individuals specifically in smaller parts of the country.?
Social media is bridging the gap between isolation and inclusion, making the world more accessible—one follower/connection at a time. By amplifying such voices, advocating for inclusion, and fostering support, we can create a society where every neurodivergent individual feels valued and empowered. If you want to explore more about the role of social media and the importance of the neurodiversity movement in fostering inclusivity and discover accounts that are creating safe, supportive spaces, stay tuned for our upcoming blogs!
Written by: Muskan Gupta