Tips On How To Support Your Mental Health While Living with Disability & Chronic Illness
For every physical symptom, injury or condition there is a mental impact. Living with a disability or chronic illness isn’t just about managing physical symptoms - it’s a daily balancing act of juggling it all - our physical health, mental health, rest, resilience, passion for life and having fun too. At Cool Crutches, we’re constantly inspired by the strength, creativity, and positivity within our community but also know it's an ongoing mission and one that always needs time and care. 💕🌈
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we have chatted to our community but also our co-founder Amelia about their mental health. In doing so we have put together their personal tips on how they protect and nurture their mental wellbeing while navigating life with chronic conditions. Here’s what they had to say - raw, real, and truly uplifting.
Hannah using her Purple Walking Stick & Amelia using her Amethyst Sky Crutch
💜 Amelia: "Movement is what matters - not how."
Amelia reminds us that staying active looks different for everyone:
"I’ve used every mobility aid you can imagine, and in the process have learned what’s important is that I keep moving, not how I do it. Whether it's on wheels, sticks or crutches, even a few minutes outdoors can make such a huge impact. Find mobility aids that make you feel safe and confident, whatever they may be and use them - your mental and physical health will thank you."
@amelia_peckham
⭐ Hannah: "Talking is my superpower!"
For Hannah, the key to staying mentally strong is connection:
"Talking to friends, family, or my online community has been my saviour. Speaking to others who ‘get it’ makes such a difference. I remind myself daily not to compare my journey to anyone else’s - I’m doing life my way, walking stick and all! Focus on what makes you happy, find that passion, and as my mum says, ‘Go for it and don’t give up.’"
@birdmolyneaux
Dr Liz using her Gold Glitter Walking Stick & Noah using his Red Glitter Crutch
🌈 Noah: "Your recovery is your major comeback."
Noah’s advice is all about hope and purpose:
"The best advice I've ever been given is 'Life is like waiting for a bus. There’s always another opportunity in 5 minutes!' and I try to live by this every day. When it all feels pointless, shift your focus. Find something that sparks passion, for me, it’s Paralympic sport. Break out of your comfort zone, chase those small wins, and remember: there’s always another opportunity just around the corner."
@come_on_noah
🤩 Dr. Liz: "You are not your diagnosis."
Dr. Liz offers powerful insight on acceptance:
"It’s okay to have down days, but don’t let them consume you. Trust that things can get better, if you resist the urge to feel resentment, you can get to that place of acceptance quicker. Sometimes, something as simple as putting on colourful clothes can help shift your mindset. Choose joy where you can, even when pain feels overwhelming."
@drlizmurray
Bec using her Pink Walking Stick & Eliza using their Bespoke Walking Stick
🩷 Rebecca: "Rediscover old passions & try new ones."
Rebecca has found empowerment through movement and creativity:
"Zumba, the gym, modelling, public speaking - all these things boost my confidence and mental wellbeing. There is magic in doing things I’ve always loved doing that I can still do now, as well as exploring new things."
@pinkspirationbec
✨ Eliza: "Find your people."
For Eliza, community is everything:
"Having disabled friends and a strong support network has been life-changing. Surrounding yourself with people who understand your challenges makes all the difference."
@disabled_eliza
Wendi using her Black Crutch & Chloe using her Lavender Haze Walking Stick
👑 Chloe: "Love, support & little moments of joy."
Chloe credits her little family:
"The love of my supportive partner and our little cat gets me through the toughest days. I also make time for myself - skincare, creativity, music. It’s those small acts that remind me I’m more than my illness. For anyone who is struggling with their mental health, please remember that you will still experience joy and happiness despite the pain and struggles. Better days are always coming."
@endometreosischlo
😍 Wendi: "Positivity, mindfulness & helping others."
After her Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, Wendi leaned on therapy and mindfulness:
"CBT gave me tools to manage tough days, and meditation keeps me centred. Being part of a community that understands what I'm going through has been super helpful, plus giving back to others in the community, brings me so much joy."
@wobblywendi
Every story highlights a powerful truth - mental health isn’t a destination, it’s a practice. Whether it’s talking to others, finding a passion, moving in a way that feels right, or simply allowing yourself rest, there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
If you're living with a disability or chronic illness, know this:
✨ You are not alone
✨ It’s okay to ask for help
✨ Small joys matter
✨ Community is powerful
✨ Better days are ahead
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we encourage you to take inspiration from our team and find what helps you thrive.
If you’re looking for a supportive community, mobility aids that empower you, or just a reminder that you’re doing great - we’re always here for you at Cool Crutches. 💜
