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Dealing with shame as a person with a disability

On Behalf of | Dec 1, 2020 | SSD - Social Security Disability Process And Benefits |

Disabilities come in many different forms. However, most disabled people share many of the same frustrations, emotions and experiences as a result of going through life with a disability. Therefore, it’s possible that you, like many other people with a disability, experience feelings of shame. Sometimes the emotional burden of living with a disability can be as difficult to handle as the disability itself.

You may be unaware of exactly why you feel ashamed about your disability, but it is likely that it has arisen during many different experiences. It is important that you are able to identify which of your opinions are rooted in this shame and that you do not let these feelings prevent you from living your life fully. For example, many people find that the shame they experience hinders them from applying for disability benefits. The following is an overview of how you can potentially deal with feelings of shame so that you can overcome them.

Shame can come from feeling humiliated

Shame is often born out of an experience or many experiences of being humiliated. As a disabled person, there may have been times where you were made to feel embarrassed, like a burden or less worthy than another person because of your disability. While these experiences are terrible, it’s important that you surround yourself with supportive people who are able to remind you of your worth and how amazing you are.

Overcoming shame by asserting your rights

Shame can make us feel small, insignificant and vulnerable. It can make you feel as though you are not worthy of help or support. However, this is simply not the case. If you have a disability, not only are you entitled to disability benefits if you meet the criteria but asserting your rights and claiming what you deserve might actually be an effective remedy to combat your feelings of shame.

Make sure that you take action to make a disability benefits claim so that you are able to support yourself financially.

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