In this episode of Growing Through It, host Sharon Johnson explores the profound and often invisible 'energy cost of hiding your disability at work.' This conversation is essential for anyone navigating chronic illness, neurodivergence (such as ADHD or autism), or invisible disabilities in professional environments. We discuss the exhausting phenomenon of 'camouflage'—the mental gymnastics required to mask symptoms, hide tremors, or suppress pain to appear 'normal' and competent to colleagues and managers. If you feel like you are constantly performing a role rather than doing your actual job, this episode offers validation and practical strategies for reclaiming your energy.

We dive deep into the psychological toll of ableist workplace cultures that assume a baseline of able-bodiedness and perfect cognitive function. The episode examines how the fear of rejection leads many to wear a 'heavy coat' of self-chosen concealment, draining the very resources needed for creativity and connection. You will hear stories from listeners who use noise-canceling headphones as shields or push through physical pain until their hands shake. We challenge the traditional definition of success, arguing that output-driven metrics often ignore the immense labor of accommodation and masking. Instead, we propose a new framework where success includes setting boundaries, taking necessary breaks, and prioritizing sustainability over burnout.

Crucially, this episode moves beyond diagnosis to offer actionable steps for reducing isolation and shame. Sharon introduces the concept of 'small acts of rebellion,' such as asking for written instructions instead of verbal ones or admitting to a trusted colleague when you are having a hard day. These tiny shifts can be revolutionary, helping to dismantle internalized ableism and reduce the loneliness that fuels shame. We emphasize the power of finding even one 'witness'—a peer or mentor who sees your whole self—to lighten the emotional load. By shifting from performance to authenticity, you can begin to heal the exhaustion caused by hiding.

Join us for this calm, reflective discussion on resilience, self-compassion, and professional integrity. Whether you are newly diagnosed, managing a long-term condition, or simply tired of pretending, this episode provides a safe space to breathe and reconsider what it means to thrive at work. Please listen closely, take care of yourself, and remember that support is available. For more resources and to support the show, please visit our website via the link below.

More from Growing Through It: https://humanitymedia.org/growing-through-it

Topics: disability at work, invisible disability, workplace masking, chronic illness fatigue, adhd in the workplace, mental health resilience, ableism at work, professional burnout, neurodivergent employees, workplace accommodations, emotional labor, self advocacy skills, cortisol stress response, psychological safety

#disabilityawareness #mentalhealthmatters #workplacewellbeing #neurodiversity #chronicillnesssupport #resiliencebuilding #selfadvocacy #burnoutprevention #inclusiveleadership #mentalhealthpodcast #authenticityatwork #growingthroughit

Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/growing-through-it/2026-10-29.txt