Why Disability Matters to Mental Health (Part 7)

In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!

Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
This chapter explores ability and disability as identities, focusing on how ableism impacts individuals with physical and mental differences. Ability matters because it shapes access to public spaces, opportunities, and social inclusion. The dominant narrative often marginalizes people with disabilities, treating them as “others” or seeing disability solely as something to “overcome.” The corrective experience includes adopting the social model of disability, which sees disability as a result of societal barriers rather than individual limitations. By advocating for accessibility and inclusion, we foster a world where everyone can participate fully.

Why Disability Matters to Mental Health
Living with a disability often presents unique mental health challenges, especially in a society that may not fully accommodate or understand those differences. People with disabilities may face social exclusion, discrimination, and internalized ableism, which can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, constant efforts to navigate inaccessible environments can contribute to chronic stress. The corrective experience of advocating for inclusive spaces and respecting diverse abilities fosters a sense of whole-person respect and belonging that can improve mental health. When society values accessibility and support, people with disabilities can experience enhanced self-worth, reducing mental health burdens.