Stress and Disability

By Laurie Narad

Although stress is difficult for anyone, it is the worst thing for a person with a physical disability. Those without physical challenges are able to go for a walk to release some of their worry and stress. Depending on the type of impairment, a person may not be able to get rid of their stress. Activities that some may take for granted are often stressful for people with disabilities. Here are just a few examples: getting into a car by yourself, getting a job, walking to the store, and getting items off the shelf at the grocery store.

I began realizing my stress had a purpose. Though it doesn’t seem like a blessing, it can be in disguise. I think if God has given me a challenge that He’ll help me fly to the top of the mountain. If I don’t fly to the top, I’ll get there with every little step and know He’ll protect me on the way up the mountain and back down as well.

Sometimes it’s an act of nature when the weather changes and your body rebels and hits back. As people with disabilities work so very hard to get from point A to point B, we become stronger and more unique people. My hope in this life is that I stop questioning the WHY’s and become stronger, with a positive attitude.

Stress can do wicked things to the mind and body. We need to realize that God made us and that He’ll provide us with a hedge of protection. Traveling can be a challenge for me and most people who have disabilities. Stress can make you feel physically sick, or like you’re drowning. It is then that you need to look to the sky and begin to realize, OK, we’re only human, we’re God’s children and God will help us to overcome.

When we’re stressed we loose sight of God’s purposes and those around us that God has put there to help us. If we can just learn to let go and let God handle the big situations, the small ones will take care of themselves. So, when we’re stressed, we just need to realize that God is with us and is watching over us better than anyone else.