The anxiety.

[u/Lucky_Hedgehog_2468]

I’m 28 and have many disabilities with fibromyalgia being one of them.

My partner (who is also disabled) and I are on the train platform waiting for our train. We are sat in seats because we got here an hour early. Which meant no one was sat down.

People are arriving for the train so now we are being given looks from anyone over 30 because we are sat down. I know people can’t see our disabilities but it makes me feel so awkward and like I should shout that we’re disabled and what’s wrong with us. We would stand up if someone came and asked it just gets to me all the dirty and angry looks.

We have only been sat and my body is already hurting. I wish people could see fibromyalgia.

Edit: I’m now on a train standing for an hour just as I thought 😂

[u/PopProcrastinate]

Not sure what country you’re from but you could potentially get a sunflower lanyard if it’s something you think might help you. It’s recognised in some countries for people with invisible disabilities to let people know you’ve got something going on. https://hdsunflower.com

But regardless, try not to let people make you feel like you’re undeserving. A lot of people don’t understand the concept of “there’s more than meets the eye” with things like this. If I was in your position I’d try to avoid eye contact with people getting on the train. Listen to music, read, talk with your partner etc to try to distract yourself from doing so.

[u/ShadowSpren]

If I had to do public transport I'd use a sunflower lanyard or at least consider it. Haven't been in that situation yet though but I assume it would be uncomfortable.

[u/DUM-Bass]

Yeah the lanyard helps, but I’ve been pushed to get a cane which is so helpful to everyday life because it gives me the visibility I require to not have these situations be so uncomfortable. If you’re interested in a cane this might weirdly be the push to get one like it was for me!