ROCK thru invisible disability at work
Part 4: Empower your support system
by Lee Havenga | February 9, 2023
Congratulations! If you’ve shared your silent disability with a trusted colleague, you’ve stepped out with bravery. Now, take the next steps to get the support you need.
RESPECT
Give the Respect you want to receive.
Apply it
When you took that big deep breath and finally shared your illness, you hoped your coworkers would accept you while you navigated how to work with a disability. Take a moment to consider that your colleagues may need similar grace and time to adjust. Some may feel awkward, not knowing what to say or how to act. Accept them unconditionally when good intentions are clear, but actions differ from what you expect. Remind yourself that you’re all learning to navigate the new dynamics, and accommodations that support you may also impact them.
OWNERSHIP
Only you can determine what you need.
Apply it
Getting the support you need begins with you. It’s difficult to admit that you need to approach your work differently, but only you know your struggles. And more importantly, only you know what will help.
Start with Awareness and Acceptance:
• Pay attention and note specific ways your symptoms are impacting your work
• Be honest with yourself. Recognizing and accepting your challenges is the only way to find your solution
Next, Take Action:
• Make a list of your challenges and several solution options for each
• Include details of how you expect the adaptations will help you continue your productive contributions
• Research the feasibility, costs, and logistics of your resolution ideas
For example: Perhaps, you are having difficulty with fine motor movement in your hands, making typing slow and inaccurate. You identify speech/typing software as a possible solution. Include details about how you expect the software to increase your efficiency and confirm its compatibility with your IT department.
CONNECTION
Information can turn a confidant into an advocate.
Apply it
Most people genuinely want to help but often don’t know how. Supporting someone with a silent disability may be new to some people. Don’t assume that because someone knows about your illness, they know how to help you. When you can clearly articulate the challenges and proposed solutions, schedule a meeting with a colleague who can empower you to implement the adaptations. Guide them in your journey by sharing support options and a plan. Show them how to be your ally, and they probably will.
KINDNESS
Applaud when your support system has nailed it.
Apply it
We all need to be validated and know our efforts matter. Reciprocate an ally’s support with an update. Once support options are in place, keep your support system in the loop on progress. Consider proactively scheduling a regular check-in to provide an update on how the adaptations meet your needs. This way, you can also collaborate on any necessary adjustments. When navigating unfamiliar territory, your allies will appreciate the feedback. Tell them when you felt their support so they can continue learning how to be your advocate. Identify the specific supportive action and that their efforts were noticed and appreciated. It can be as simple as a text message like this:
“When you recommended me to be part of the project team, I felt really supported. Thanks!”
Previous issues in this series
Part 1: Empower yourself
Part 2: Empower others
Part 3: Empower the brave
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