According to the Equality Act of 2010, a person is disabled when they have a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on their ability to do normal daily activities. In Scotland, 28% of people are currently living with a disability. 

Physical disabilities 

Physical disabilities can affect physical function and capacity, such as mobility, stamina or dexterity. They can affect walking, moving arms or hands, standing, and controlling or coordinating muscles. These impacts can make everyday tasks more challenging. A physical disability can be present from birth, or it may happen at any point in a person’s lifetime because of injury, illness, accident or unexpected effects of medication. 

Learning disabilities 

Learning disabilities can affect a person’s ability to learn or comprehend. They can start from birth or develop early in childhood but may not be noticed until they affect areas of life, such as school. A learning disability is not a mental health condition or an illness, but it can make you more likely to experience mental illness later in life, even though they are not the same thing. 

Common myths about disability and mental health

How can a disability impact your mental health? 

Disabled people are at greater risk of experiencing poor mental health in their life. Often, disability can cause social isolation and loneliness due to barriers to accessibility in social events, work or education. In turn, this can lead to mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. 

Stigma can cause an invalidation of feelings and make you not want to seek support for your mental health. Even if help is sought, there may be fear that concerns will not be believed or taken seriously.  

However, many disabled people find ways to adapt to their new circumstances, drawing on inner strength, support networks and coping strategies to foster positive mental health. The Social Model of Disability states that disabled people are ‘disabled’ by barriers in society and not necessarily by their impairment. 

Disabilities in rural areas 

Disabled people living in rural areas often face additional challenges compared with those in urban areas. Limited job opportunities and transportation options (especially when inaccessible) can make it harder to access work, education, healthcare and social activities. These barriers increase social isolation, reduce opportunities for interaction, and put rural disabled residents at greater risk of poor mental health. 

How can I support my mental health while having a disability? 

1. Find others who can relate to your experience 

Talking with others who understand what you are going through can provide valuable emotional support. You can find peer support groups in your area or connect with groups online. These groups can help bring a sense of community, belonging and friendship where you can share your experiences without judgement. Building these connections can help you feel less alone, providing reassurance, practical advice and coping strategies. 

2. Consider counselling 

Just as disabilities can require medical attention, mental health struggles deserve professional care. Therapy or counselling can help individuals process the emotional impact of their condition, develop coping mechanisms and address mental health issues. 

3. Self-care 

Self-care can look like engaging in hobbies and activities that you enjoy, such as art and photography, spending time outside in nature, reading, watching films, learning a new skill, or spending time with family and friends. It is also important to make sure you are eating a balanced and nutritious diet and getting enough fresh air. 

4. Financial support 

Having a disability can run up huge costs and you might face money worries. It is important to understand the financial support available to you.  

You may be eligible to receive an Adult Disability Payment (ADP) from Social Security Scotland, if your situation meets the criteria. Read more about ADP in our guide: “Am I disabled enough?”: Understanding ADP and mental illness in Scotland. 

Our National Advice and Support Service can help you find out whether you are eligible for ADP or what other financial assistance you may be entitled to. See Anne’s story to find out more about how this service can help you. 

How can I support disabled people and their mental health? 

Supporting a disabled loved one and their mental health can be challenging, and it’s important to recognise that carers’ own mental health matters too. We offer dedicated Carer Support across Highland, Tayside, Fife and Dumfries & Galloway. 

It’s important to remember that individuals can lead fulfilling lives with the right support and coping strategies. By being aware of the mental health impact of disability and providing compassionate support, we can help disabled people maintain their emotional wellbeing and navigate their experiences with resilience.

See our guide on supporting someone with their mental health for further advice and information.

1. Be an Active Listener  

Let your loved one express their feelings without judgement. Active listening shows that you acknowledge their experiences and emotions, which can make them feel less alone.  

2. Offer Practical Assistance

Depending on the disability, your friend or family member may require help with specific tasks. Offering practical support, such as assisting with mobility, transportation or household chores, can make a significant difference in their wellbeing. However, remember to respect their independence. 

3. Promote Social Activities

Encourage your loved one to engage in social activities, whether it’s attending a social event or participating in hobbies. Inclusion in social activities can reduce feelings of isolation and increase a sense of belonging.  

Our National Advice and Support Service can help you and people you care for with mental health concerns and money worries.  

We can link and signpost you to relevant local and national support, including our own Change Mental Health services, as well as supporting with debt, grants and benefits.  

The service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm to 1.30pm). Contact 0808 8010 515, email advice@changemh.org or fill in the form on the service webpage.  

For full details about the service, visit the National Advice and Support Service webpage.  

Other Support 

Capability Scotland supports disabled children and adults across Scotland through care, education and employment services. You can contact them at hello@capability.scot or 0131 337 9876. 

Disability Information Scotland offers information, advice and signposting services for disabled people, their carers, or people working within the sector. Call their helpline on 0300 323 9961 (Monday – Friday 10:00am to 12:00pm then 1:00pm to 3:00pm) or email info@disabilityscot.org.uk. 

The Yard is a charity offering inclusive adventure play services for disabled children with services in Edinburgh, Fife, Dundee and Glasgow. Call 0131 476 4506 or email info@theyardscotland.org.uk. 

Enable Works provides employment and work-related support, including training and resources, to job seekers with learning disabilities. 

Inclusion Scotland is a national network of disabled people, organisations and allies that advocates for the rights of disabled people in policy and practice.