I’m sick of being treated younger than my little sister

Lucy_21

As some know I have disabilities but I’m so frustrated now when my family treat me younger than my little sister. We have a family situation right now and she knows more than me she’s 16 I’m 21 and they tell her but suddenly stop talking when I walk in. I know more than they think because I can hear everything from my room position but my point is it still hurts when they constantly do that. I feel stupid, invalid, invisible and as if I’m a helpless child which hurts a lot more with my disability and I can’t take it anymore what should I do

Gemma

Hey @Lucy_21, thank you for sharing this with us - it sounds like that feeling of being left out is resulting in a lot of frustration and pain. Having others, especially family, treat you as though you're less capable can feel like a deep invalidation. It's completely understandable that this would leave you feeling hurt and invisible.

If you're comfortable, maybe there's a way to open a conversation with them about how their actions make you feel. Sometimes family might not realise the impact of their behaviour, even if it seems obvious to us. How would you feel about sharing some of your thoughts with them, like how much it would mean to be included in certain conversations? Or you could ask what has prevented them from including you so far?

And even if talking with them is hard or doesn't seem like an option, know that your feelings are totally valid here. You deserve to be seen and respected for who you are, not just your age or what others assume about you.

Lucy_21

Thank you @Gemma believe me I've tried but they pretty much just mock me. I'm starting to just feel like a burden at this point and just want to leave (move out)'but they just laugh and don't take it serious if I bring it up

ebyrne556

Hey @Lucy_21 just checking in on you this morning? It sounds like things are diffcult with your family that they are making you feel like a burden and im sorry that you are being made feel like this. Your feelings matter and are so valid and we all value you so much here in the community.Here for you and sending hugs