this post was submitted on 29 May 2025
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disabled

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Welcome to c/disabled, an anticapitalist community for disabled people/people with disability(s).

What is disability justice? Disability justice is a framework of activism which centers disabled people of multiple intersections. Before participating in in this community, please read the Ten Principles of Disability Justice.

Do I count as disabled/a person with disability(s)? "Disability" is an umbrella term which encompasses physical disabilities, emotional/psychiatric disabilities, neurodivergence, intellectual/developmental disabilities, sensory disabilities, invisible disabilities, and more. You do not have to have an official diagnosis to consider yourself disabled.

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Hello everyone! Don't have a lot to say, finally got around to making the new mega.


As always, we ask that in order to participate in the weekly megathread, one self-identifies as some form of disabled, which is broadly defined in the community sidebar:

"Disability" is an umbrella term which encompasses physical disabilities, emotional/psychiatric disabilities, neurodivergence, intellectual/developmental disabilities, sensory disabilities, invisible disabilities, and more. You do not have to have an official diagnosis to consider yourself disabled.

Mask up, love one another, and stay alive for one more week.

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[–] Wmill@hexbear.net 4 points 16 hours ago

Was helping my sibling out yesterday with some health insurance stuff, their treatment had been stalled so needed to see their primary care provider but the mf was in a different system all together. Navigating the insurance site to change it was a nightmare so I was coaching them what to say on the phone and I think we got a doctor that exists. Beforehand I was just calling up clinics to confirm if these doctors even were real and it was a pain... pretty sure the insurance site was just using ai to scrape local doctors around here not really checking to see if they were real and that rightly pisses me off. At least the lady on the phone was way more helpful

[–] DisabledAceSocialist@hexbear.net 6 points 17 hours ago (1 children)

They say youth is wasted on the young. Well, I say health is wasted on the healthy. All these people with able bodies and good health, ruining it with junk food or other habits, sitting indoors doomscrolling all day when they could be outside doing activities. I wish to be able bodied again. I want to hike for miles along the coast instead of sitting around frustrated.

[–] gingerbrat@hexbear.net 5 points 17 hours ago

Couldn't agree more. knight-nod

[–] Wertheimer@hexbear.net 5 points 20 hours ago

I've been focused on my health lately, and I just got out of the hospital (maintenance, not emergency). Even if I don't improve my condition I've at least been improving my reaction to it and stress from it, blahblahblah. That said, I'm basically under house arrest since I'm so goddamn fatigued, and I may have a long trial-and-error period with new medications coming up. I know I'm doing what's best for both my physical and my mental health but it's a major bummer to not be able to be involved in any organizing at a time like this. I hope that I can achieve some sort of stability soon and can pick things back up, even if it's not on the front lines. @Frank@hexbear.net had a great comment here a while back that I'm trying to keep in mind:

Whenever folks express dismay that they can't do cool activism stuff on the front lines i try to remind them that an army marches on it's stomach and there's lots of logistics things that need to be done that don't involve marches and protest camps. Handling phones, making food, taking care of kids, coordinating intelligence, teaching classes and sharing expert knowledge. Many people can fight for a cause in ways that go beyonf the highly visible stereotypes of what protesting looks like but our society makes people think they're useless if they can't play tennis with tear gas cannisters.

[–] Keld@hexbear.net 6 points 1 day ago* (last edited 1 day ago) (1 children)

Med students are having chatgpt do their ethics exams. I don't have a comment. Just a statement.

[–] Horse@lemmygrad.ml 6 points 1 day ago

what do you call someone who cheated their way to a pass at med school?

doctor

[–] Keld@hexbear.net 9 points 2 days ago (1 children)

Inside me there are two wolves. One wants a nap, the other one has drunk so much garbage my blood type is caffeine.

[–] gingerbrat@hexbear.net 6 points 2 days ago (1 children)

hands you a glass of water You know... For diluting the caffeine

[–] Keld@hexbear.net 6 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago) (1 children)

Sweet, I can put caffeine tablets in that! No but actually I had some water and crashed, I slept for like 10 hours which isn't really a nap.

[–] gingerbrat@hexbear.net 6 points 1 day ago

Sounds like you really needed the sleep though, so I'm glad the water helped.

Also, please don't put caffeine tablets in your water, it's not good for you meow-hug

[–] SterlingPooper@hexbear.net 6 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago) (1 children)

what are support systems, what is identity, mention of suicideI would (half-jokingly) be interested in a case study about friendship and support systems and what kinds of correlations there are and what factors contribute to a support system forming.

I think my brain is a little cooked in that I really don't see a way to meet new people and make friends, at least in my current ways of approaching things. I have a strong tendency to show up to things, look around, and if someone doesn't talk to me or something doesn't catch my interest, I end up leaving, because I just feel weird standing there thinking to myself, "should I talk to someone, who should I talk to, how do I decide" Like showing up to things by myself feels useless, I'm completely on rails.

I have yet to get to a Pride event this year. I consistently have conflicts or am burnt out. But that's I guess my only chance to meet people remotely like me. Hell, I'd be posting this in the trans comm, but posting there really spikes my rejection sensitivity. I don't have the energy to do that to myself or ruin the community for other queers.

It's especially tough because I came out to my pre-COVID friends online and they liked the post and went on with life. Selfishly, I thought at least one person might want to reconnect, or at least say "so that's where you've been!"

I thought about killing myself. I felt like I was already dead. It's not like anyone was reaching out to me anyway.

And now, if I say anything, I'm bringing up old shit. I'm being dramatic.

I don't know what I consider a support system, but off the cuff, I'd say I don't really have one. I have my family, who I can talk to sometimes. But nobody is experiencing this in real time with me. Nobody checks in on me, nobody reaches out if I go quiet.

Maybe deleting my old account was a form of self-rejection. But also, nobody in the trans mega cared when I did post. People invalidated my feelings at times. People gatekept. I felt like I had to prove that I was dysphoric in order to be accepted. That made me more dysphoric.

I just want to find a space where my gender is actively being affirmed, not just "oh I accept you regardless" but like actually having girly conversations and doing girly things. And calling each other girly nicknames, and doing our hair and makeup and going shopping. Or something.

[–] un_mask_me@hexbear.net 4 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago)

I want to start by saying I'm glad you're here with us, and I hope I don't come across as disingenuous when I say that. I am autistic, and I struggle with communication so please feel free to tell me to eff off or disengage if at any point my words make you uncomfortable, unaccepted, or invalidated in any way.

wordsI can sympathize with the feelings of isolation with no real support, and the anxiety in social situations. Wish I had a formula I could share to make it easier, but if I'm honest I'm still trying to figure all that out myself. I hope you know it's not selfish to want people to care, or notice when you're struggling and need help. The reality is that you deserve a safe space to be your unique and beautiful self and have that celebrated and openly accepted by those around you. It'll look different for everyone, but I think support can come in all shapes and flavors. The hard part is finding it and recognizing it. Hopefully we can give you a little bit of that here.

I can't speak on the dysphoria personally, but please know you don't have to prove anything. I am sorry things have been so difficult, and I genuinely wish that things get better soon. You've shared a lot and that's not always an easy thing to do. You're appreciated. Sending hugs if wanted.

cat-trans

[–] TheSpectreOfGay@hexbear.net 12 points 3 days ago (3 children)

i do not like that unemployment has become a meme thing to make fun of people for lately catgirl-flop

[–] DragonBallZinn@hexbear.net 3 points 1 day ago (1 children)

I want to think that it’s children doing this and they are yet to discover the truth about jobs.

My alternative is usually “go outside”. despite porky’s wishes, I don’t need to be a nepo baby to go outside just yet.

[–] TheSpectreOfGay@hexbear.net 3 points 1 day ago

ya, "go outside" or "log off" are the same kinda idea but without punching down at ppl. but ppl like punching down at ppl so ig i shouldn't be surprised.

[–] un_mask_me@hexbear.net 7 points 2 days ago

It sucks to see people 'punching down' like that, even in memes

[–] mendiCAN@hexbear.net 4 points 2 days ago (1 children)

where? i ain't seen it but i admit i deliberately avoid most media social n otherwise

[–] TheSpectreOfGay@hexbear.net 5 points 2 days ago (1 children)

i see it pretty much everywhere, but especially in youtube comments

[–] gingerbrat@hexbear.net 5 points 2 days ago

Now that you mention it, I've seen that too, it's been cropping up very recently. I don't get it, tbh, but then again, punching down is easy, so of course people hop on.

[–] un_mask_me@hexbear.net 10 points 3 days ago (1 children)

Might be a bit redundant, but, as we head into the weekend again I want you all to remember that you matter, you are loved, and you belong! Thank you for being such an awesome community and always lovin on one another; it's lovely to witness. Ya'll inspire this awkward gremlin on the other side of the screen. Care-Comrade

[–] gingerbrat@hexbear.net 6 points 3 days ago (1 children)

We love our awkward little Gremlin meow-hug

[–] un_mask_me@hexbear.net 7 points 2 days ago
[–] roux@hexbear.net 12 points 3 days ago (1 children)

I'm just gonna go live in an anarchist commune.

I've basically had free reign to contribute to this group I am organizing with these last 2 days and it's felt so meaningful and impactful. I'm working on a website for a food co-op we are starting, and also working on helping set up a sponsored free breakfast program and it's been so rewarding. I feel like I'm being seen for my skills I'm able to contribute and also being treated as a human. They are giving me feedback and actual meaningful praise that doesn't feel like corpo jargon bullshit. I really hope this co-op takes off and we can create enough surplus that I can possibly quit my job and work for this full time. I'm not sure how NGO's and non-profits manage all that. I might bring it up in our meeting tomorrow evening.

In any case, these last 2 days have been amazing for my mental health and now I gotta go back to my regular job. I'm trying to stay positive about it though.

[–] gingerbrat@hexbear.net 7 points 3 days ago (1 children)

I'm so happy to hear that! You finally got to do something actually meaningful, this is such big and beautiful news Care-Comrade

(P.S.: Also, if you can, take me with you, I wanna help too.)

[–] roux@hexbear.net 6 points 2 days ago (1 children)

If the empire falls, I'm scooping up all the leftists and we are gonna build a place we can all live and thrive together.

[–] un_mask_me@hexbear.net 4 points 2 days ago (1 children)
[–] roux@hexbear.net 3 points 1 day ago

We need people that can grow food. We need people who can build housing. We need teachers. We need healthcare folks. We need tech people. We got room for you!

[–] gingerbrat@hexbear.net 10 points 3 days ago (4 children)

I wanted to say that all your kind comments as well as the conversations with all of you really picked up my spirits these last few days. I'm usually a very negative person when it comes down to me, and I tend to lash out at people around me when I'm feeling scared or in pain, often in immensely cruel ways. I had such a moment just this week, and was thinking of how I'm no better than my mother, but then you lot chimed in and really changed my perspective. I'm grateful to all of you, those who needed help as much as those who gave it. I'm just as conflicted as everybody else, I have my horrible moments, but I can also be a good person. So, ahm, thanks comrades, for making me feel human again. meow-hug

[–] TheSpectreOfGay@hexbear.net 6 points 3 days ago

glad to hear that meow-hug

You're a good friend, I'm sure we all hope we can be to you too. Hope you're feeling much better soon. cuddle

[–] Keld@hexbear.net 8 points 3 days ago (2 children)

I´m listening back to recordings of my patient interactions for my notes, and wondering aloud why none of my patients have punched me square in the face. My voice is so fucking annoying.

[–] mendiCAN@hexbear.net 8 points 3 days ago (1 children)

we all hate it own voices right? not that they're bad but more that they're wrong. they aren't what we hear normally (from inside our skulls) so the less rich sound throws us off

[–] Keld@hexbear.net 6 points 3 days ago (1 children)

Yeah but my voice is also just bad. I have a very distinct accent and I do the Seth Rogen laugh.

[–] mendiCAN@hexbear.net 5 points 3 days ago (1 children)

my laugh

no fr i have to be careful people think I'm making fun of them

[–] HexReplyBot@hexbear.net 3 points 3 days ago

I found a YouTube link in your comment. Here are links to the same video on alternative frontends that protect your privacy:

[–] gingerbrat@hexbear.net 7 points 3 days ago (1 children)

Did you help your patients as best as you could? Because I'm sure they don't mind the sound of your voice as long as you help them Care-Comrade

[–] Keld@hexbear.net 7 points 3 days ago (1 children)

I like to think I do my best. Although I'm not at a level where I do much besides move people, bring them things, ask questions or get in the way. One of my patients made fun of my accent so they definitely notice.

[–] gingerbrat@hexbear.net 7 points 3 days ago

That's annoying, to say the least. You're working in a non-native language, which means you already do more than most people in their job. That's impressive all on its own. And I too think you're doing your best. Care-Comrade

[–] Keld@hexbear.net 7 points 4 days ago (2 children)

One of my neighbours is clearly not well, so she sometimes just screams for several minutes at a time. She sometimes repeats this in intervals over an hour or so. She's not in distress and she neither wants nor needs help. She just screams. It's not that big a deal except when she does it when I'm trying to sleep. She's loud enough that earplugs don't really solve the issue.

I don't really know what to do here. I'm thinking of trying to sound proof my apartment but that feels a bit silly. I could also tell her to duck into her closet when she needs to scream, but I don't know her well.

[–] Edie@hexbear.net 5 points 4 days ago (2 children)

You live besides dyarikku?

But that does sound really irritating.

[–] Keld@hexbear.net 4 points 4 days ago

It isn't great.

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[–] DisabledAceSocialist@hexbear.net 4 points 4 days ago (1 children)

Maybe report it to social services or ask the police to do a welfare check anyway.

[–] Keld@hexbear.net 9 points 3 days ago (1 children)

I am absolutely 100% not calling the police on someone for being mentally ill or being annoying

[–] CupcakeOfSpice@hexbear.net 4 points 3 days ago

I would generally agree. I wish healthcare professionals responded to wellness checks instead. The first time I was hospitalized, though, I went to a school counselor and talked to them. I don't remember if it was a piglet (campus security) or the full grown thing that drove me to the ER, but it wasn't a doctor or therapist or anything. What I mean is a welfare check is usually doesn't have the same vibe as calling the police to catch or arrest or even scold somebody. But also it's totally fair not to want to call police on them at all; they have a bad track record with mentally ill folks.

[–] TheSpectreOfGay@hexbear.net 7 points 4 days ago (6 children)

i did something really really hard yesterday, had a meltdown and threw up from the stress, but i did it. and there seems to be this expectation from the people around me, that cos i did it once i can do it again, indefinitely. but it takes me like, a week to recover from this sorta thing, or else i get super burnt out

like in highschool i would throw up from stress every morning and that didn't stop until i started skipping 50% of my classes

i was not built for life i think

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