Would you tell people about your disability?

Stickman

I've been thinking about this for a while.  What made me ask the question is that the way some people act around me.  Is it that sometimes people may misunderstand about disability?  Would you be comfortable with telling someone about your disability? 

I think it would be good to do so, but what do you think?

Rosie_Scope

I think it depends on the circumstances for me. I have what would be considered to be invisible disabilities, and have encountered some upsetting attitudes in the past which make me a bit wary of mentioning it in certain situations. But that doesn't mean telling people isn't a good thing sometimes!

It's true that some people don't understand or can misinterpret what having a disability means. That can lead to them unintentionally saying hurtful things or acting in a way that makes me feel uncomfortable, so I often feel the need to protect myself from that if I don't have the energy to correct them.

On the other hand, many people are lovely and make a real effort to understand. If you do tell people, it can help them anticipate your needs as well as how best to communicate or interact with you.

I think there are pros and cons to sharing, but often it is better to let people know. You can always choose how much or how little detail you want to give too

Stickman

Hi Rosie

I have an invisible disability plus a learning disability, and that's exactly why I asked the question

Rosie_Scope

It's a good question @stickman, always interesting to hear what people think on these kinds of things!

Stickman

Yeah, I've never felt comfortable with it, it's as if I'm hiding a terrible secret and it gets me really upset.  I hate people avoiding me because of it, I hate people jumping to conclusions, I hate people giving me a wide berth - that really hurts and I end up feeling isolated and lonely.

Rosie_Scope

That sounds really difficult @Stickman. I find it hard when people jump to conclusions about me too. As you say, it can be really isolating and lonely. 

I can understand why you stay quiet @Ada when you've had so many horrible experiences and negative reactions in the past. I'm really glad our community can be there for you

Stickman

I've sort of made up my mind to tell people now, whatever the circumstances.