I was furious when my friend lost her job because of mental health struggles, especially because we worked for an organisation dedicated to mental health support.

A few years later when I was the one who lost their job because of ableism, I was in shock. I thought working as a health professional would provide me with some support, or at least understanding.

Instead, I was bullied and pushed out of a job I was very good at, because of my mental health. Because of ableism.

by disabled psychologist, writer and educator in Melbourne, Liel Bridgford.

Here are some of Liel’s highlights from speaking up in 2024.

More than three decades into living in a disabled body, I have now been proudly selected as an honoree for Diversability’s D-30 Disability Impact list! This feels like the perfect celebration of Disability Pride Month.

The blog post discusses the impact of Gabrielle Jackson's book "Pain And Prejudice," which combines memoir and research-based critique to highlight gaps in medical research regarding women's health. It delves into how historical biases have marginalized women and females in healthcare, particularly in areas like diagnosis and treatment of conditions like BPD and endometriosis. The author emphasizes the need for equitable healthcare and urges healthcare professionals to examine biases, amplify lived experiences, and challenge unjust stigma. They assert that providing non-judgmental care is crucial in addressing historical injustices and ensuring everyone feels safe and supported in accessing healthcare.

I’m here to change the way we think about healthcare for disabled people.