Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav
Community /

Disability Support

Create a New Thread
Gif Photo Link
November Check In with Us!
by AffyAvo
Last post
November 11th
...See more [A sheep pulls a carrot from a garden] With the end of October and the beginning of November, harvest season comes to mind. Canadian Thanksgiving has passed, American Thanksgiving is to come, Diwali celebrations are occuring and pumpkins are still floating around! I know other cultures have celebrations related to harvest too. What types of harvest celebrations do you celebrate? Do you face any challenges at this time of year? How are you doing today? You are welcome to pop in to this thread multiple times throughout the month and share the tough things and the good things this month.
Meditation and Self-Care
by MistyMagic
Last post
October 18th
...See more September is Self-Care Awareness month! Read more Here! [https://www.7cups.com/forum/projectsandevents/General_2421/SeptemberisSelfCareAwarenessMonthEventsHelpWanted_336603/]          Meditation and Self-care Meditation is a word that can scare many people but it is not all about sitting cross-legged and saying ‘Ohmmm’ (although that works a treat!), it can take many forms and you can also design your own. You probably use a type of meditation when you stir your coffee and think, or whilst waiting for the water to boil to make your tea. Meditation covers a vast array of ways to focus your mind and body into one! Using simple meditation as a form of self-care can be incredibly beneficial for reducing stress, enhancing focus, and promoting overall well-being. Below are ways to incorporate meditation into your self-care routine, followed by some useful resources and ten frequently asked questions with answers about meditation.  So, all-in-all a complete guide to simple mediation! Ways to Use Simple Meditation as Self-Care: * Breath Awareness Meditation: Focus on your breath. Notice how it flows in and out without changing it. Do this for a certain number of breaths, seconds, or minutes.This can calm your mind and reduce stress.You can decide whether it feels more comfortable breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth, the opposite or even in and out through your nose or mouth. This way you are in control and do what suits your body the most. Try them all then decide. * Body Scan Meditation: Mentally scan your body from head to toe, noticing any tension or discomfort. This helps to relax your muscles and increase body awareness.This is more complicated and needs more time and can mean that any areas need more attention. * Mindfulness Meditation: Sit quietly and bring your attention to the present moment without judgment. Observe your thoughts as they come and go, helping to reduce anxiety and stress. There is also the Mindfulness Community [https://www.7cups.com/forum/mindfulness/] here on 7 Cups.  * Guided Meditation: Use a recorded guide that leads you through visualizations or relaxation techniques. This is a good option for beginners who need direction. You can also record meditations yourself so they are directly identifiable to you current condition. * Mantra Meditation: Repeat a calming word or phrase (mantra) silently to focus the mind. Common mantras include "Om" or "peace." * Walking Meditation: Practice mindfulness while walking slowly, paying attention to your steps and the sensations in your body. It’s ideal for those who find sitting meditation challenging. * Gratitude Meditation: Spend a few minutes reflecting on things you're grateful for. This can shift your mindset towards positivity and contentment. * Five Senses Meditation: Tune into each of your five senses—what you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel. This can ground you and bring your awareness back to the present. * Short “Micro” Meditation: Take 1-3 minutes to focus on your breath, a mantra, or a calming visualization. This is perfect for quick mental resets throughout the day. * Counting Meditation: Count slowly from 1 to 100, or 1 to 50 or pick a number, this focuses the mind and the thought together so that energy is synchronised. * Cleansing Meditation: Whilst standing or sitting at the sink concentrate on each task and each circular motion of the items. Or whilst showering focus on the sensation of the water and allow yourself to concentrate on each movement and finally allow the water to run over you washing away all negative energy down the plug hole away to the Earth. * Favourite Place Meditation: Visualise how to get from where you are to your favourite or safe place. Think about each movement, moment and the route shedding any negativity on the way. You can get there even when you are actually somewhere else. You can calm yourself and soak in the good energy, replenishing and refreshing yourself from that place before you return. You can return in a heartbeat if you are ready, if not then retrace your  steps gradually building up strength to face the world again. Each of these meditations can take moments, you can practice them almost anywhere, and, when you have tried them a few times you can even use them in busy meetings or stressful times. ------------------------- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Meditation: * Q: How do I start meditating if I’ve never done it before?  A: Start by setting aside 5-10 minutes in a quiet place. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. Don't worry about "doing it right"—just pay attention to your breath. * Q: How long should I meditate for as a beginner?  A: Start with 5-10 minutes a day and gradually increase as you become more comfortable. Even short sessions can be beneficial. * Q: What should I do if my mind keeps wandering?  A: It’s normal for your mind to wander. When you notice it happening, gently bring your attention back to your breath or focus point. Over time, this will become easier. * Q: Do I need to sit in a specific posture to meditate?  A: No. Sit in any position that is comfortable for you. The most important thing is to maintain a relaxed and alert posture. You can even meditate lying down if you wish, but you might be more likely to fall asleep. * Q: Can I meditate if I don’t believe in spirituality?  A: Absolutely. Meditation doesn’t require any specific spiritual belief. It can be practiced simply for relaxation, focus, and mental clarity. * Q: Is it better to meditate in the morning or evening?  A: There’s no “better” time. Morning meditation can set a peaceful tone for the day, while evening meditation helps to unwind and relax. Choose a time that fits your schedule.The more you do short meditations the more you will find new ways and times. * Q: What are the benefits of meditation?  A: Meditation can reduce stress, improve focus, increase self-awareness, promote emotional health, and enhance sleep quality. Long-term practice has been shown to positively affect overall mental well-being. * Q: How do I stop falling asleep during meditation  A: Try meditating sitting up rather than lying down. You can also open your eyes slightly or try meditating earlier in the day when you’re more awake. But, hey, what's so bad about falling asleep as long as you are safe, some people use it as a sleep aid. * Q: How long does it take to see the benefits of meditation?  A: Some benefits, such as feeling more relaxed, can be experienced immediately. However, for long-term effects like reduced anxiety or improved focus, consistent practice over weeks or months is typically required. * Q: What if I don’t have a lot of time to meditate?  A: You can still benefit from just a few minutes of meditation each day. Micro-meditations, where you focus on your breath or surroundings for 1-3 minutes, can be very effective. ------------------------- By integrating meditation into your self-care routine, you can develop a practice that not only calms the mind but also strengthens your overall mental and emotional well-being. There are many accessible resources to help you get started, and with time, even brief moments of mindfulness can offer profound benefits. ☺️Share your ways to meditate here! ☺️Do you meditate? Or are you going to try? ☺️Do you have any meditation questions? ☺️Would you be interested in a group meditation here?
Interview Series - Master List!
by AffyAvo
Last post
September 9th
...See more Our series 'Interview Diaries' allows the community to share their direct living experience with conditions and disabilities and for us to learn from each other. To learn more about Interview Diaries, share as an interviewer or interviewee, and to be notified of new interviews via the taglist please see Call of Applications [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/CallForApplicationsToBeInterviewed_276642/] List of Interview Diaries:- 2022 Interviews:- Non-Epileptic Seizures  [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/NonEpilepticSeizuresWithAudienta_275839/] Turner Syndrome  [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/TurnerSyndromeWithAnimeweebu123_276707/] Spending Time With A Surfer @theboymoana [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/SpendingTimeWithASurfertheboymoana_276777/] Learning About FND  [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/LearningAboutFNDWithEmpatheticListener0309_277278/] Interview about being Deaf  [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/InterviewaboutbeingDeafwithFrenchMarbles_277578/] Experiences With Celiac Disease [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/TheWholesomeMistyMagicTellsHerExperiencesWithCeliacDisease_277824/] Dissociative Identity Disorder with @DichotomousDetia [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/DissociativeIdentityDisorderwithDichotomousDetia_277991/] An Interview With @AffyAvo on Hereditary Angioedema♥ [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/AnInterviewWithAffyAvoonHereditaryAngioedema_278243/] Endometriosis and Me: an interview with @Lilyfae00 [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/EndometriosisandMeaninterviewwithLilyfae00_278539/] PoTS and Me: An Interview with @wonderfulRainbow817 [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/PoTSandMeAnInterviewwithwonderfulRainbow817_278731/] Tendonitis and Misdiagnosis: Rachel's Experience With Chronic Pain [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/TendonitisandMisdiagnosisRachelsExperienceWithChronicPain_278839/] Pervasive Developmental Disorder: Interview with @Goalsforlife [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/PervasiveDevelopmentalDisorderInterviewwithGoalsforlife_280227/] WarmLightXO Sheds Some Light On PCOS [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/WarmLightXOShedsSomeLightOnPCOS_280813/] Learning With Lucy: Her Experience With Epilepsy [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/LearningWithLucyHerExperienceWithEpilepsy_284621/] 2 [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DisabilitySupport_47/InterviewSeriesInclusivityDiaries_2386/LearningWithLucyHerExperienceWithEpilepsy_284621/]024 Interviews:- Living with Multiple Sclerosis [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/InterviewDiariesGrabaCuppaandLearnaboutMultipleSclerosis_325500/] Living with Cerebral Palsy [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/InterviewDiariesLivingwithCerebralPalsy_326155/] Living with Meniere's Disease [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/LivingWithMenieresDisease_327897/] Living with CFS/ME [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/InterviewLivingwithCFS_328938/] Living with RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewDiariesLivingwithRA_333251/?post=3610799] Being a wheelchair user [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewDiariesBeingaWheelchairuser_336321/?post=3653342] Living with hED and POTS [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewLivingwithhEDSandPOTS_336838/?post=3659993] T [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/LivingWithMenieresDisease_327897/]his list is updated as we post more Interviews. Nov 2024
Fully ASL Starbucks
by Jill7Cups
Last post
November 10th
...See more In October Starbucks opened their first fully ASL store in Washington, DC. All employees are fluent in ASL and all patrons are encouraged to communicate in ASL. You can read more here [https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/starbucks-sign-language-deaf-friendly-store_us_5bcf8e42e4b0a8f17ef1b436]. Have you ever been to a business this deaf friendly?
Severe ME Awareness Day
by audienta
Last post
August 13th
...See more Hello everyone, I wanted to post here today as August 8th is Severe ME Awareness Day. (Source [https://worldmealliance.org/2022/08/severe-me-day-august-8th-2022/]) ME is a neuroimmunological multisystem disorder. The main symptom is a severe intolerance to any form of exercise, stress, and stimuli. It also comes with a lot of other symptoms including pain, fatigue, brain fog, orthostatic intolerance, gastroenterological issues, neurological symptoms and so on. ME is categorised into mild, moderate, severe and very severe. Today, we think of those who have severe and very severe ME and of those who have already died of this disease. People with (very) severe ME are mostly or completely bedbound, often have to lie in a dark and quiet room for most of their time, and some are even completely dependent on carers and a feeding tube to stay alive. So far, there is no treatment for ME. The only recommended strategy to deal with it is pacing, which means, staying within your boundaries to not trigger the bad response to exercise, stress and stimuli that I've mentioned before. Healing from ME completely is unlikely at the moment. We can only hope that research finds a solution for all ME patients soon.  Therefore, let's think of the severe(st) ME patients around the world today, hope for a better future for them, and grieve those who we have lost.  Thank you for reading the post. If you want to learn more about ME, here's a link [https://www.meresearch.org.uk/what-is-me/]. MistyMagic has also interviewed someone with ME in the past, so here's the link to the interview [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewLivingwithCFS_328938/]. Take care, audienta
Newly dxd with MS
by 777Bre777
Last post
July 16th
...See more I hate that I can no longer do the things I use to do. I was asked to run the sound system for a play my church is doing. I went for a few hours last night. I sat most of time but now I can't get out of bed today. I had to tell them I can't help them even though this is something I would have enjoyed doing.
I have figured something out!
by Emm22
Last post
March 27th
...See more I always get dizzy for no reason and headaches but I found out that tinnitus can cause it! Music is my new bestfriend
A letter of hope
by Countrygirl095
Last post
March 4th
...See more  Letter to People with Physical Disabilities Introduction Dear fellow individuals with physical disabilities, I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to let you know that you are not alone on this journey. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been living with your disability for many years, I understand that it is not an easy journey. It can sometimes feel like we are running an obstacle course, challenging every barrier that comes our way. But I want you to know that we can do this. Together, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Acknowledging the Challenges Living with a disability can bring about a range of challenges. From physical limitations to social stigmas, it is easy to feel isolated and alone. I want you to know that I understand what you are going through. I have been there too. I remember the frustration, the moments of doubt, and the feelings of isolation. But I have also experienced the strength and resilience that come with living with a disability. The Power of Support One of the most powerful aspects of this journey is finding support and solidarity from others. You are not alone in your struggles. There are millions of people out there in the world who are going through similar experiences. The disabled community is a vast network of individuals who understand that we are not defined by our disabilities but by our abilities. Together, We Can Achieve Anything When we stick together, we have the power to change the narrative and make a difference. Together, we can create a society that embraces and values diversity. We can challenge stereotypes and break barriers. With your support and understanding, we can pave the way for a future where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive. Conclusion As the saying goes, "Nobody walks the journey alone." Your disability does not define you, and you are not alone in your struggles. Let us stand together, support one another, and work towards a future where people with disabilities are celebrated and embraced. Remember, we are in this together, and we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Wishing you strength and resilience on your journey. With warmest regards, Countrygirl095
Autoimmune disease attacking all your systems
by Rebbecasinger
Last post
January 9th
...See more 💕
Wheelchair Users
by PeppermintSnowflake
Last post
January 7th
...See more Hi everyone- wondering if other wheelchair users would like to connect? Would be nice to offer tips/tricks, a place to vent when you've had a problematic interaction with a stranger or celebrate a positive interaction! Including: manual or power chairs full time user or part time user Anyone that is possibly transitioning to needing a wheelchair may also find this thread useful. I found a lot of blogs and youtube videos helpful before I started using mine- prepared me for some things (like strangers grabbing my push handles), how to get through non-automatic doors and tips like pneumatic wheels being better than solid rubber. I currently use a manual wheelchair out of the house. I have a power chair (perimobil F3) that I occasionally use inside the house. I cannot push myself very far in my manual chair so I need assistance to leave the house. I am in process of getting a rear-entry automatic ramp van so that I can use my power chair out of the house unassisted. I'm also a listener here so if anyone wants to chat 1:1 about this, please feel free to message me and we can set up a time! I'm on the east coast of the USA for time reference. <3
Chronic Back Pain, and rant
by ShellyZz
Last post
November 28th, 2023
...See more Wondering if anyone has any advice for back pain from scoliosis.  Not sure about others with scoliosis but mine effects not only my back but also my hips.  And the past two nights it has been radiating to my left rib cage, so every time I inhale the pain goes up, exhale goes back down.  But it hurts so much.  My doctors got me a back brace, but told me not to wear it at night.  I also have had physical therapy on and off for 17 years.  Does anyone have any advice to hopefully help the pain?  I've had pain meds but the doctor doesn't prescribe them anymore.  I've had Ultram er a little less pain, gabapentin did nothing, tramadol a little less pain, Vicodin did the most but is hard to get a prescription for, ibuprofen 600 helps with other pain but not much if any for the back.  Pt helps a little for the day, brace helps a little too.  Tens unit can also help some but not a lot.  Cold or hot packs work a little if I can keep them on.  I also have Lidocaine patch 5%, helps a little if I can keep it on.  Sadly I'm pretty used to the back pain, but the rib pain is bothering me quite a lot.  I'm just so tired of being in pain in general.  It also makes my depression worse since doing anything is hard.  Thanks for listening to the rant.
Zion the documentary
by Heartsandrosesandpaws
Last post
September 23rd, 2023
...See more I just got done with watching Zion the documentary. It is about an African-American teen becoming a good wrestler without any legs or feet. It shows that even if you have a disability or have odds not in your favor you can overcome those odds. One time even when he failed, the team made the whole thing more of a positive time for him.
Introduction
by Stitchlover17
Last post
June 29th, 2023
...See more Hello, my name is Jessaca, I’m 20, I was born with spina bifida and I was never supposed to walk at all and I can independently, BUT as of right now I am currently in a wheelchair because of just having surgery on my foot two weeks ago.
ehlers danlos
by tasiaah
Last post
March 12th, 2023
...See more recently figured out I have hypermobile ehlers danlos and it causes me quite a bit of pain and its very tiring :(
Back pain
by lauren12224
Last post
February 11th, 2023
...See more has anyone else suffered from back pain. It’s been hard to work or do anything sometimes

Welcome to the Disability Support Community!

This is an inclusive community where people can seek and provide support and post about topics related to learning disabilities, chronic pain, chronic illnesses and conditions, physical disabilities and developmental disabilities. You are welcome to join in even if you don't used disabled as a label for yourself.

There are a number of ways to get involved and be supported. We have a pop up teen chatroom and a 24/7 adult chatroom.

There are guides for Chronic Pain and T2 Diabetes
There are Q&A sections for Disabilities and Chronic Pain

Members may connect with a listener who has disabilities, chronic pain, cancer, diabetes, adhd or autism listed as a topic and there are listeners with disabilities supporting people with disabilities

We encourage people to post new threads and respond to others in the forums! Some good ways to get started are to introduce yourself and to join our tag list to be notified of weekly check ins and events. We also have an Interview Series: if you would be open to sharing more about yourself and want to be interviewed.

Looking to be even more activity in the Disability Community? Join as a leader!

*Note we are inclusive of all disabilities but ADHD and Autism each of their own communities which may be of interest to some of you.

Community Guidelines

🌟 Please be respectful of everybody's thoughts and opinions.

🌟 Don't think you are alone, so please share

🌟 Please be patient if you feel like your concern hasn't been addressed yet; we are working hard to add more leaders and supporters.

🌟 If you have any concerns, reach out to a leader or make a post.

🌟 For Listeners only - please remember that you are here to give support, if you are seeking support then please switch to your Member account.

🌟 Most of all - don't forget to be awesome! You are loved and accepted here, no matter what!

Guidelines For Using AI 


We all want the Disability Support Community to be a safe place where people are able to be their authentic selves and receive support. We understand that AI tools can be helpful in reducing barriers, allowing people to better express themselves, and allowing those with some disabilities to be able to read, write, and post, but excessive, or complete use of AI can feel robotic and reduce supportive person-to-person interactions. It can also lead to false impressions of the poster. We want to try and avoid this and help our Community to be as inclusive and as welcoming as possible to all users.


What is AI?

AI is short for ‘artificial intelligence’ which is software, a program or algorithm that works to sort, order, and combine data to give a response or answer to a question or input. Artificial intelligence is the ability of a computer, software, or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks that are commonly associated with the intellectual processes characteristic of humans, such as the ability to reason. As yet no AI’s match full human flexibility over wider domains or in tasks.

Some of the most common examples of AI in use today include: 

  • ChatGPT: Uses large language models (LLMs) to generate text in response to questions or comments posed to it. 

  • Google Translate: Uses deep learning algorithms to translate text from one language to another. 

  • Netflix: Uses machine learning algorithms to create personalized recommendation engines for users based on their previous viewing history. 

  • Tesla: Uses computer vision to power self-driving features on their cars.



If using AI tools please adhere to the following:


  • Include some of your own personal expression. This could come from a detailed, personal prompt to the AI tool or include some of your own words with a post.

  • Cite which AI tool(s) you used, which applies both to AI-generated and AI-edited text as well as images too. For instance, if you use Dragon to voice type then say so and if the text is AI-edited include that fact too.

  • Avoid posting misinformation. AI sometimes creates personalized anecdotes, facts, or references. If you are sharing an experience, don’t post an AI-fabricated one. If posting information check that it is correct and aligns with trustworthy sources.

  • Cite the source of your information. It can be important to know and understand the source of information posted, AI-generated content may draw information from their database so try and use factual sites that can be checked and that aren’t misleading.

  • Don’t make threads in excess. AI can make it fairly quick to create a lot of content. We want to give everyone’s posts a chance to be seen. Please don’t post a large amount of threads in a short period of time, this is called ‘flooding’ and can prevent other posts from being seen.

  • If you do feel like there’s a lot you want to state on one topic, consider making multiple posts within the same single thread. Or create your own ‘Disability Diary’ thread and post there, this will increase your visibility, and those who reply will be notified when you add another post.

  • Follow the guidelines. You are responsible for what is posted from your account, even if AI was used in the creation of the post, so please double-check what you write and post!


For more information please read this post by @Heather225 - 7 Cups Community Director.


Do’s ✅  and  ❌ Don’t List:


Do - Humanize your post with your own expression and words

Do - Cite the AI tool(s) you use

Do - Make ONE thread and post to it if there are several posts you want to make

Do- Read things over and ensure the guidelines are being followed

Don’t post something that is entirely AI-generated with little input from yourself

Don’t post misinformation

Don’t flood the forums with AI threads, or multiple threads


If in doubt please ask @MistyMagic  (Adults and Teens) or @AffyAvo (Adults) or consider joining the Disability Community Support Team. More information Here







Community Leaders
Community Mentor Leader
Community Mentor / Teen Community Star
Group Support Mentor / Teen Star