Tired of Defending My Disability

I have very severe anxiety and autism that isn’t easily treated with medication. I also have both sensory processing disorder and auditory processing disorder. I have panic attacks and meltdowns often. It makes it basically impossible to have a job. But I look healthy. Is anyone else tired of getting people to understand that you ARE sick? That you ARE disabled? I’m tired of being shamed for using my cane and having to carry my medications with me. I am not able-bodied and I shouldn’t have to defend myself at every turn. It’s exhausting.

Your answer

Paircat7

2y ago

I totally understand. I have a chronic illness, as well as multiple mental health things like depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Only those closest to me know that I’m sick, because i really push myself to keep going. It is so frustrating when people just think im lazy when I have to sit down or when people don’t understand why my weight fluctuates so much right now, and that’s not even getting started with everything else mentally. I totally get it.

cuttlefish

2y ago

Same here, I recently had to quit a job because it got so bad. My parents and a lot of my friends don't understand how hard it's been for me but I'm lucky to have a wonderful wife who helps me out a lot. I feel like a lot of the time I'm out and about I'm screaming on the inside and no one can tell. It really takes people by surprise sometimes when I use an artificial voice to speak because I don't look disabled from the outside.

Yearofthetiger

2y ago

So exhausting which causes a whole cycle of issues and flares too good vibes to anyone ever going or gone through this wish I could help “looking healthy “ is my super power only some days

Scoutie

2y ago

😥💕I'm sorry 😞 yes, it is exhausting to have to explain it and it is okay to be who you are and celebrate your life 🧬 We are not a diagnosis. I feel better when I get dressed nice and look good, but my outsides don't match my insides.

Dogmama2

2y ago

My husband is like that, doesn’t understand either. I have severe anxiety/depression, chronic pain, migraines, chronic nausea, IBS, get overstimulated really easily. I am a home body because of these things, like to do stuff that is comfortable and familiar. He is the opposite, tells me to just says suck it up. I am actually contemplating separation. I’m really just wanting peace and calm in my life. I look “normal” so I must be good to go according to him.

Jenni_Star

2y ago

(My cane is collapsible, like a tent pole, so it folds up in my purse relatively easily)

Jenni_Star

2y ago

The looks I get when I pull my cane out “suddenly” and start walking around the store or park like an old person… Everything you just said resonates with me so much. I’m really sorry you go through such situations

Zurripop

2y ago

❤️ ❤️ ❤️

wish_i_was_debonair

2y ago

The people who won’t or can’t acknowledge your disability do not deserve to be a part of your everyday life. I look able bodied and am constantly having to explain to people that I’m in pain, or overstimulated and need to go home. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. We see you and we love you, good luck💕

QueenOfCrohns

2y ago

I’m chronically ill/disabled but I look completely healthy and normal on the outside and I’m able to complete most daily tasks because I push myself super hard. It’s so frustrating and exhausting having to defend yourself constantly. Able-bodied people will never understand that experience. And they have a hard time recognizing that most disabilities aren’t visible.

The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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