People Open About What They Wish Others Knew About Their Disability Or Illness

Saying that having a disability or chronic illness is “tough” would be a drastic understatement. On top of dealing with the physical and emotional implications, people also have to combat misconceptions about their ailments every single day– whether that be with friends or family members, employers, or random community members.
Thankfully, though, people online recently took to Reddit to share what they wish more people knew about their disability or illness.
And aside from the thread providing these people with a platform to speak their truths, the responses can also help able-bodied people educate themselves.
Disabilities Are Not Always Visible
“Just because you cannot physically see it or because I act ‘normal’ does not mean it’s not there.” –Ty-t941
In fact, about 10% of Americans have a medical condition that is considered an “invisible disability.” So, remember to treat everyone with kindness and empathy– regardless of appearance.
How To Speak To People With Hearing Loss
“I have hearing loss. It does not help if you say the same thing over and over, getting more upset but not trying to say it any louder or more clearly after I tell you I can’t hear what you are saying. Bonus points if you try to talk to me while walking away.” –NoBSforGma
Instead of becoming frustrated, remember to slow down, annunciate your words, and raise the volume of your voice when speaking with someone affected by hearing loss.

golubovy – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual person
Anxiety Syndrome Can Be Debilitating
“One of my illnesses is anxiety syndrome, and I don’t just worry a little. It is handicapping. It’s catastrophic thoughts.”
“I know I am often irrational, but oftentimes, it does not help to tell myself so. The anxiety is still there. Also, it can come out of nowhere for no reason.” –Sexychronicpain
So, if you know someone who suffers from anxiety syndrome, do not write their feelings off as illogical or unnecessary.
Rather, just be there for them and ask how you can help them battle these overwhelming thoughts.
Not All People Are Like Sheldon Cooper From “The Big Bang Theory”
“Not all of us are good with computers. We are not all Sheldon Coopers, Shaun Murpheys, Forrest Gumps, or Raymond Babbitts.” –Firespark7
At The Same Time, Some People Just Need A Minute To Process Their Thoughts
“I promise I’m not stupid, lazy, not listening, or uninterested. I ask to repeat things because my auditory processing is really awful, and it is hard to conceptualize instructions in my head unless they are written down in front of me and walked through with an instructor or colleague.” –Minitature_ranni
Sometimes, People Also Have To Live With Their Ailments Forever
“It is INCURABLE! I have a type of cancer that is treatable for life but incurable. People are always telling me, ‘You will beat this!’ Actually, I won’t– not until I die, anyway. And I’m not ready for that.” –Life-Two9562
To read the complete thread on Reddit, visit the link here.
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