Internalized Ableism

Internalized Ableism

            Internalized ableism occurs when disabled people adopt negative beliefs and stereotypes about disability, leading to feelings of distress, shame and alienation both from the abled community and the disabled community. Internalized ableism can lead to profound feelings of shame when life becomes overwhelming. There is a belief that we can only be good enough if we’re contributing the same amount to work, home and society as an abled person. This internalized sense that the disability must not be accepted can lead to an inability to seek accommodation, a negative self view, isolation and the person hiding their disability.

Abandoned Barn, Ontario

            So how do you know if you have internalized ableism? Do you believe it when people say that you’re not really disabled? Do you believe you have to prove something to the world around you? Do you participate in events you dislike? Do you need to prove that your disability doesn’t impact your life? Are you reluctant to ask for accommodation? Do you know any other disabled people? Are you embarrassed to tell people about your disability? If you think you have internalized ableism, please treat yourself with kindness and care. When you are ready, there are things you can do to become more supportive of yourself and your reality.

            As part of my clinical practice, I work with clients to find acceptance. Learning about yourself, celebrating your strengths and finding kindness, self acceptance and gentleness for yourself can help you to integrate your disability into your life, rather than seeing it as a separate part of you to be concealed where possible. I work with clients to identify what role they want disability to play in their lives; a private matter to be held in confidence where possible, or a point of discussion, or pride, or somewhere in between.

Book Now