COURAGEOUSLY DIFFERENT

Neurodivergent individuals speak on their intersectional identities and the lack of societal and workplace accommodations

- STORY: THANA BOONLERT

From left, Riddy Sonsomsuk, Phatcharacom Nopacoh, Kamonchanok Maneephairojn and Chanchagorn Weerawat share their experiences.

(MR. MS. NOTITLE IS YOUR CHOICE)

Growing up queer and neurodivergent, Phatcharacom Nopacoh is easily triggered by external stimuli, especially light, sound and touch. However, very few recognise their neurodiverse conditions.

"I am good at masking, but at the expense of myself," they said. Consequently, they need time to recharge and plan a day. Any interruption freaks them out.

"At school, I still had a schedule, but at work, a lot of interruption makes my autism more obvious. If a day is spent on socialising, a rest day is needed. As it is impossible to take time off, I feel more anxious, obsessive-compulsive and burnt-out," they said.

The Young Pride Foundation held a talk titled "Neurodivergent: Not Crazy, Just Courageously Different" as part of the Berk-Baan Fest 2025 at Ruen Roi Chanam earlier this month. It provided an opportunity for neurodiverse youth to gather and share their experiences.

Phatcharacom, who identifies as non-binary, said their neurodiversity affects personal relationships, for example, with a partner, who feels slighted when they are overwhelmed and do not feel like hugging. Misunderstanding also arises when they do not feel like talking in the middle of conversation with friends. Their behaviour is misinterpreted as lack of empathy.

"Socialising causes a lot of stress. I try so hard to avoid being seen as weird and inconsiderate. That is why I prefer texting because it allows me time to process," they said.