20/01/2026
Spoon theory, s3× & intimacy (plus a neurodivergent lens)
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We often talk about s3× and intimacy as something you “should” make time or energy for. But for many neurodivergent people, it’s not that simple.
Spoons matter. Specifically we are referring to spoon theory.
Some people find intimacy gives spoons. Some find it costs spoons. And many experience both, depending on the day, the partner, the type of intimacy, and their nervous system state.
For some, giving spoons to intimacy feels worth it because of what they receive in return... Things like connection, regulation, pleasure, closeness, reassurance, bonding.
For others, those spoons feel too expensive (the juice isn't worth the squeeze so to speak) especially when factors such as sensory load, masking, stress, pain, trauma history, or burnout are already high.
Neither is right or wrong. It just is.
Your value for s3× and intimacy...
✨Can change over time
✨Can change day to day
✨Doesn’t have to match your partner’s
✨Doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s
And it’s okay if your answer to it is...
“Not today.”
“Only in this way.”
“Only when I have capacity.”
“Actually, this isn’t important to me right now.”
It's important to remember that consent isn’t just about saying a simple yes or no. It’s about capacity and checking in properly with yourself and/or others before moving forward.
Neurodivergent bodies and brains don’t run on unlimited energy. And you most certainly don’t owe anyone your spoons.