Stories
Privacy
Download
See Alike in...
Alike App
Browser
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?
0
10
Share
Chronic Pain
advertisement
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
2
@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
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.
1
@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.
616d
in the absence of a wide spread easily recognizable symbol for the mental health disabilities i think it is okay
@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.
@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
@Student_girl I agree
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.
@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
Want to chat or share? Download the Alike app now and get complete access to Alike.health's unique features.
Instantly get answers to medical questions with our AI, built from the collective wisdom of our community facing similar experiences
Write your question here...
Download Alike for the full experience
Copy Link
Copied
Discover your Alikeness™ with people who are on the same journey, gain wisdom and get emotional relief in a secure & anonymous space.
4.7 Ratings
Scan code or click below download the app
Bupropion
night sweats
paranoid
Valium
sertraline
palpitations
Anxiety (Including GAD)
Depression
Alike health
Instantly get answers to medical questions with our AI, built from the collective wisdom of our community facing similar experiences
Related Questions