Annie in wonderland

  In today's world, where discussions around disability and cultural differences are increasingly prevalent, the significance of language cannot be overstated. Words carry weight, shaping perceptions and attitudes towards individuals with disabilities. However, amidst this discourse, there's a growing concern about the policing of language by those who may lack real lived experience of disability. It's essential to navigate this terrain with compassion, understanding, and a genuine commitment to inclusivity. In Australia, terms like "higher functioning" and "lower functioning" are commonly used to describe individuals with disabilities. While these terms may be deemed acceptable within certain contexts, it's crucial to recognize the diversity and complexity of disability experiences. What might be acceptable to some may be offensive or reductive to others. As such, sensitivity and respect must guide our language choices. Moreover, beyond mere semanti

  In the intricate dance of navigating life with invisible disabilities, there's a crucial partner often overlooked: support workers. These individuals play a vital role in providing assistance and ensuring that those with disabilities can navigate daily life with as much ease as possible. However, when support workers fail to understand the unique needs of individuals like myself, it can lead to frustration and challenges that could easily be avoided. Let's take a closer look at my own experience. Living with ADHD, epilepsy, minimal brain damage, Shojrin's syndrome, and peripheral neuropathy presents its fair share of obstacles. Yet, it's not just the disabilities themselves that pose challenges; it's the lack of understanding from those tasked with providing support. Despite my efforts to communicate my needs, some support workers have struggled to grasp the nuances of my disabilities. For instance, ADHD isn't just about being easily distracted; it encompasses

  In the intricate dance of navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the desire to manifest someone out of your life can become entangled with the necessity of masking ADHD symptoms, particularly in the context of housing compliance issues. For women and girls with ADHD, the concept of masking adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging scenario. Let's set the stage: you find yourself in a situation where the housing manager, tasked with ensuring compliance with NDIS regulations, is failing to meet their obligations. Ratios are being breached, essential support is lacking, and your legitimate concerns are falling on deaf ears. Yet, the mere act of speaking up is met with accusations of being difficult or a troublemaker. Here lies the crux of the matter: ADHD masking. It's not just about hiding symptoms to conform to societal expectations; it's about survival in a world that often fails to understand or accommodate neurodivergent individuals