A broad space for

Disability & Accessibility

Disability & Accessibility, Family

The Difference Between Coping and Masking Your Disability

The line between coping with a disability and masking it is something I've been thinking about a lot lately. It's that blurry space where healthy adaptation meets harmful pretending, and I've found myself on both sides of that line more times than I can count....

Disability & Accessibility

Disability and Identity: Contradictions and Coexistence of Thoughts

Disability and identity are deeply intertwined, often in ways that spark conflicting thoughts and emotions. The internal dialogue surrounding these concepts can be complex, as we try to reconcile our personal experiences with societal expectations. Here are some reflections on how these contradictions often coexist within our minds. Validation and...

Creative Writing & Self-Expression, Disability & Accessibility, Mental Health & Society, Personal

Seeking Validation in a World That Doesn’t Understand My Disability

It’s been over a year since I’ve been able to walk unaided. For short distances, I rely on two walking canes, but for almost everything outside of the house, I need my mobility scooter or wheelchair. Despite this, I’ve been denied a disability parking permit time after time, because what...

Disability & Accessibility, Mental health, Pain & Chronic Illness

The Intersection of Physical Health Recovery and Pre-existing Mental Health Struggles

Recovering from a physical health condition is a journey that demands resilience, patience, and strength. However, when this journey is compounded by pre-existing mental health struggles, the road to recovery can often feel overwhelming and insurmountable. As someone who has navigated the turbulent waters of both physical and mental health...

Disability & Accessibility, Mental health, Sleep & Mental Health

Taking a Break Before You Break: The Power of Self-Care

In today’s world, we often push ourselves to the limit, neglecting our mental and physical well-being until we reach burnout. We treat our bodies like smartphones, only stopping to recharge when our batteries are completely drained. But what if we could avoid this cycle of exhaustion by learning to take...

Creative Writing & Self-Expression, Disability & Accessibility, Pain & Chronic Illness, Personal

My Not So Great Experience in Pain Management Group and What I’m Going To Do Next

To be effectively managed, pain must be met and acknowledged. While I often bring lessons from my personal journey, I must admit I am always learning myself. Today, I’m reflecting on a recent experience that didn’t quite hit the mark for me. I decided to partake in a group therapy...

Disability & Accessibility, Family, Mental health, Mental Health & Society

Challenges of Siblinghood When One of the Siblings Has a Disability or Mental Health Struggles

Siblings are born to fight and love. When mental health challenges come into play, the battles may seem harder but the love even stronger. The bond between siblings is a unique and profound connection. However, when one sibling has a disability or mental health struggles, the dynamics within the brotherhood...

Disability & Accessibility, Mental Health & Society, Pain & Chronic Illness

More Than a Feeling: When Emotional Pain Becomes Physical

The prevailing notion that stress and trauma can be shrugged off with a stiff upper lip or the passage of time is not only outdated but potentially harmful. The truth is, ignoring these emotional upheavals does not lead to their disappearance. Instead, they manifest in various physical forms, silently wreaking...