In today's episode, I talk about accepting invisible disabilities and illnesses. I explore what it means to truly accept these conditions, what others may think about how it reflects in our character, and why talking about these hidden concerns can be so challenging.
I've pondered lately, "What would I look like to others if I accept my disability?" This question is rooted in fear and vulnerability. There's a worry that accepting my condition might be perceived as giving up or showing weakness, even though acceptance is supposed to be a courageous act of self-love and empowerment.
What will other people think? Did I “accept it” too soon? Am I supposed to be pushing back for my entire life, constantly in therapy? Is it okay to say, “That’s it. This is how it's going to be”? Will people think I’m lazy? These are the questions that plague many of us with invisible disabilities.
When we accept our disabilities, it says something about us. While I'm still figuring out exactly what it says, I do know that it shows we acknowledge our reality and are ready to navigate life with honesty and strength in this new version of ourselves, both body and mind. Acceptance does not mean resignation, though it can feel like it. It means recognizing our current situation and finding ways to live fully within it.
There is a stigma and misunderstanding surrounding invisible conditions. If we appear "normal" then we should downplay our struggles. If we appear normal but aren’t, it can be a constant internal battle to either pretend everything is okay or make sure others know how we really feel awful. This can lead to isolation and fear of judgment, making us hesitant to interact with others.
Today I talk about how there are millions of potential outcomes, and acceptance in my life should look no different than my neighbor's. This shift in perspective can be incredibly liberating, putting me on equal footing with everyone else, as we all face countless possibilities.
I tend to gravitate towards stressful thoughts until I talk them through with my support network—my Team Rachel, which includes my doctors, friends, and family. Their support is invaluable, helping me see things from different angles. This network is important in managing my self-talk.
In this episode, I share how I work on accepting my disability as it is today. Acceptance has been a process for me. Acceptance is living fully today, not fast-forwarding to the outcome. By focusing on the present, we can reduce the anxiety that comes from future tripping and welcome the infinite possibilities that life offers everyone.
