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darkstarrynight

623d

Hi, I'm not sure if this bothers anyone else, but... I feel really angry when mentally ill/ mentally disabled people use the disabled/wheelchair logo and say that they are disabled, just because of a mental illness. It confuses me when they say they are disabled, because then I imagine someone in an actual wheelchair or something. Having a mental illness/illnesses, is usually not the same as having 24/7 chronic pain, like I have. I just feel so frustrated about this. Any thoughts or opinions about this topic?

Top reply
    • wise

      604d

      That's the internalized ableism talking. If they don't match what you think a disabled person should look like, then they shouldn't say they're disabled. It happens to the best of us, but what's important is realizing that that's all it is and that people with crippling mental health conditions are just as disabled and entitled to accomodations as physically disabled people

    • wise

      604d

      That's the internalized ableism talking. If they don't match what you think a disabled person should look like, then they shouldn't say they're disabled. It happens to the best of us, but what's important is realizing that that's all it is and that people with crippling mental health conditions are just as disabled and entitled to accomodations as physically disabled people

      • Cece7

        604d

        @wise plus some people physically do have trouble moving when they struggle with mental disorders. When mine is really bad I have trouble even walking or doing anything physical my brain and body just disconnect. I also have permanent nerve damage in a lot of my body so understand how physical issues can also make others need extra help. I think whoever needs help should get the help they deserve

    • History.and.cats

      615d

      My mom is on disability for her mental health, she quite literally cannot work because of it. She is disabled. She doesn't use the passes though. I do think it is also important to remember that most disabilities are invisible, someone can have a heart condition where they need close parking incase of an emergency but they look able bodied. If they have the pass and they use it then they need it.

      • darkstarrynight

        615d

        @History.and.cats yes I'm quite aware that disabilities can be invisible, as my chronic pain is invisible to others. And I'm sorry to hear about your mom.

    • Rowan420

      616d

      in the absence of a wide spread easily recognizable symbol for the mental health disabilities i think it is okay

      • Student_girl

        615d

        @Rowan420 I get that, but I don’t think mental and physical disabilities should all be grouped together. The challenges faced because of them are pretty different. I have some of both, and from experience they’re pretty different.

        • Rowan420

          604d

          @Student_girl i think that a symbol should be created and used widespread however in the mean time the wheelchair is a symbol that non disabled people easily recognize

        • darkstarrynight

          615d

          @Student_girl I agree

    • Student_girl

      623d

      I agree that the wheelchair logo should be limited to those with physical disabilities, but not only wheelchair users. For example, I walk with crutches and braces, and I think it still applies to me.

      • darkstarrynight

        623d

        @Student_girl yes, of course. Other people have to use differents aids to help them move around and that is valid as well. The wheelchair thing was just something that came to my mind first.

☝ This content is generated by our users and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision

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