The assumption that disabled individuals should always be “productive” rather than allowed to relax is a pervasive and harmful misconception. This isn’t just about personal comfort; it reflects a deeper societal devaluation of disabled lives. Many people with disabilities live in a constant state of uncertainty, where physical and mental capacity fluctuates unpredictably. The idea that leisure is a luxury they haven’t “earned” ignores the fact that disability itself is exhausting.
The Myth of Constant Contribution
The core problem is rooted in hypercapitalistic ideals that equate worth with output. If a disabled person is seen enjoying life—traveling, socializing—the immediate assumption is that they should be working instead. This mindset ignores the fact that many disabilities are dynamic, meaning symptoms vary day to day. Unlike non-disabled people, whose bodies respond predictably to exertion, disabled individuals often face higher stakes when overextending themselves.
This isn’t about laziness; it’s about survival. For many, overexertion doesn’t just mean fatigue—it means hospitalizations, setbacks, and chronic pain. The energy spent fighting systemic inaccessibility and medical neglect is already a form of labor that goes unrecognized.
Systemic Disrespect and Financial Realities
The stigma extends to financial assistance. Many disabled individuals rely on social programs they’ve contributed to for years, yet face judgment for using them. One author recounts a friend asking if she was “living off the government” after learning about her inability to work due to a car accident. The reality is that these programs are intended for exactly this purpose.
This mentality reinforces the belief that disabled people don’t deserve basic comforts like vacations or simple pleasures. The expectation that they should always justify their existence through labor is both cruel and unrealistic.
Rest as Resistance
Rest isn’t merely self-care; it’s a political act. For disabled people, it’s often a matter of life or death. Pushing through exhaustion can lead to severe health consequences. The author emphasizes that she pushes herself every day, yet still faces judgment from strangers who assume she isn’t doing enough.
The author recalls being stared at in an airport while waiting for her son’s high school graduation. The stares underscored the societal expectation that disabled people should constantly prove their worth. This is a reminder that many disabled people are operating at maximum capacity already, navigating a world designed against them.
The Right to Human Dignity
Ultimately, disabled people deserve rest just like anyone else. Their right to relax isn’t conditional on productivity or societal validation. It’s about recognizing their inherent humanity and acknowledging that chronic conditions and disabilities demand prioritization of well-being.
“Rest isn’t just a radical act of reclamation; it’s often a matter of life or death.”
The author concludes with a defiant decision to embrace rest unapologetically, even in the face of judgment. This is not just a personal choice; it’s a challenge to the systemic devaluation of disabled lives.
