Disability Disclosure

Disability Disclosure- A personal decision

   Deciding whether or not to disclose your disability is something that you must take time to think about.  The consequences and benefits of disclosing your disability can affect your decision in different areas of your life.

Benefits

• Accommodations
• Services
• Legal Protection against Discrimination
• Reduces Stress of Having a 'Secret'
• Greater Communication with Challenges 
• Improves Self-image
• Increases Comfort

Disadvantages

• Can Lead to Exclusion
• Object of Curiosity
• Overlooked for Jobs
• Conflicted Feelings about Self-image
• Viewed as Needy
• Embarrassing 

If you do decide to disclose your disability practice can help you build your confidence.  This can be a scary thing to tell a stranger and ask for what you need!  Practicing with a parent or friend can help you feel more comfortable and confident with what you are going to say and ask for.  

This website is a great way to get the 411 on disability disclosure!

Let's watch a video!  This is a great clip of people who have disclosed their disabilities and their experiences.