Stickman Communications
@stickmancomms.bsky.social
Stickmen helping to build understanding and acceptance of hidden disabilities and chronic illness, in a way that empowers us. (Run by Hannah Ensor - who has #hypermobility #PoTS and probably other stuff.) +talking about personal experience of #disability
It's rained every day for weeks here! Today was yet another day of rain, but I needed some countryside views, so a friend and I went for a drive - over the hills and through some villages. I didn't take any photos cos I was driving, but it did my soul good. Now back home, and it's raining still.
February 15, 2026 at 5:43 PM
It's rained every day for weeks here! Today was yet another day of rain, but I needed some countryside views, so a friend and I went for a drive - over the hills and through some villages. I didn't take any photos cos I was driving, but it did my soul good. Now back home, and it's raining still.
So often people assume that stepping back from an activity or social interaction is lazy, selfish, or giving up. In reality, withdrawing, and being alone for a while can be a necessary strategy to manage sensory overload, and be the best way to maximise -
February 14, 2026 at 3:23 PM
So often people assume that stepping back from an activity or social interaction is lazy, selfish, or giving up. In reality, withdrawing, and being alone for a while can be a necessary strategy to manage sensory overload, and be the best way to maximise -
Running a business while managing severe fatigue, overwhelm, pain etc has some wryly amusing side effects. Common sense says the bigger the order the better, but when my capacity is low, it's more like "Please be a small/simple order so my brain doesn't implode!"
February 14, 2026 at 2:24 PM
Running a business while managing severe fatigue, overwhelm, pain etc has some wryly amusing side effects. Common sense says the bigger the order the better, but when my capacity is low, it's more like "Please be a small/simple order so my brain doesn't implode!"
Complex regional pain syndrome is often vastly underestimated in its effects. It doesn't mean 'a bit achy' - it means long term, severe pain that has very limited treatment options, alongside limited movement, swelling, skin issues, and extreme sensitivity. And it's really hard to explain this-
February 13, 2026 at 5:09 PM
Complex regional pain syndrome is often vastly underestimated in its effects. It doesn't mean 'a bit achy' - it means long term, severe pain that has very limited treatment options, alongside limited movement, swelling, skin issues, and extreme sensitivity. And it's really hard to explain this-
This pocket book of pacing contains the practical notes and advice that I wish I'd been given right at the start of my pacing journey. All in little bite-sized sections for easy processing. And now, over 15 years since the first edition, I still dip into it for reminders and -
February 12, 2026 at 5:09 PM
This pocket book of pacing contains the practical notes and advice that I wish I'd been given right at the start of my pacing journey. All in little bite-sized sections for easy processing. And now, over 15 years since the first edition, I still dip into it for reminders and -
In the busy-ness of life, it's easy to think that slowing down means wasting time - and asking people to slow their explanation/instructions down is being a burden. In reality, when we ask for information to be given slower, it's usually an excellent investment - it creates opportunities -
February 10, 2026 at 5:09 PM
In the busy-ness of life, it's easy to think that slowing down means wasting time - and asking people to slow their explanation/instructions down is being a burden. In reality, when we ask for information to be given slower, it's usually an excellent investment - it creates opportunities -
I’m sitting by my open door (out of the wind, but in the fresh air) listening to the birds. And while yes, there are many things I need to do, right here, right now, this is most needed. And taking these breaks will help me stay on track in the longer term. #Pacing #Fatigue #PoTS #Hypermobility
February 10, 2026 at 1:38 PM
I’m sitting by my open door (out of the wind, but in the fresh air) listening to the birds. And while yes, there are many things I need to do, right here, right now, this is most needed. And taking these breaks will help me stay on track in the longer term. #Pacing #Fatigue #PoTS #Hypermobility
I loved doing this little jigsaw last night.
Although slightly annoyed that the last piece to go in was wrong/wonky - and I was too tired to get it out and replace it the right way round! So it was still like it this morning. Imperfect, but still beautiful, and still appreciated!
Although slightly annoyed that the last piece to go in was wrong/wonky - and I was too tired to get it out and replace it the right way round! So it was still like it this morning. Imperfect, but still beautiful, and still appreciated!
February 9, 2026 at 11:30 AM
I loved doing this little jigsaw last night.
Although slightly annoyed that the last piece to go in was wrong/wonky - and I was too tired to get it out and replace it the right way round! So it was still like it this morning. Imperfect, but still beautiful, and still appreciated!
Although slightly annoyed that the last piece to go in was wrong/wonky - and I was too tired to get it out and replace it the right way round! So it was still like it this morning. Imperfect, but still beautiful, and still appreciated!
FND is one of the conditions we have an explanation card for - because the condition itself can affect peoples ability to think - and explain - clearly, and it can affect speech. Plus other people often find it really hard to understand so having a ready-made explanation can make life a lot easier.
February 9, 2026 at 11:22 AM
FND is one of the conditions we have an explanation card for - because the condition itself can affect peoples ability to think - and explain - clearly, and it can affect speech. Plus other people often find it really hard to understand so having a ready-made explanation can make life a lot easier.
Oh my. This card me at the moment. Excuse me while I curl up and whimper!
I knew this was likely because I have B12 deficiency on top of my hypermobility, PoTs, and neurodivergence, and my B12 jab is due on Monday. My symptom levels - 1/3
I knew this was likely because I have B12 deficiency on top of my hypermobility, PoTs, and neurodivergence, and my B12 jab is due on Monday. My symptom levels - 1/3
February 6, 2026 at 11:22 AM
Oh my. This card me at the moment. Excuse me while I curl up and whimper!
I knew this was likely because I have B12 deficiency on top of my hypermobility, PoTs, and neurodivergence, and my B12 jab is due on Monday. My symptom levels - 1/3
I knew this was likely because I have B12 deficiency on top of my hypermobility, PoTs, and neurodivergence, and my B12 jab is due on Monday. My symptom levels - 1/3
The uninitiated often don't realise how real - and frustrating it is to be unable to process information because there's too much going on - either physically (distractions, noise etc) or in my head (decisions needed, too much on my calendar for me to even think about
February 5, 2026 at 6:45 PM
The uninitiated often don't realise how real - and frustrating it is to be unable to process information because there's too much going on - either physically (distractions, noise etc) or in my head (decisions needed, too much on my calendar for me to even think about
This card can be really useful at #school - enabling kids who find communication difficult to discretely let the teacher know they need to go to the bathroom without having to say anything. #Diabetes #Incontinence #Crohns #Autism
You can get it here: www.stickmancommunications.co.uk/digestion-bl...
You can get it here: www.stickmancommunications.co.uk/digestion-bl...
February 3, 2026 at 7:55 PM
This card can be really useful at #school - enabling kids who find communication difficult to discretely let the teacher know they need to go to the bathroom without having to say anything. #Diabetes #Incontinence #Crohns #Autism
You can get it here: www.stickmancommunications.co.uk/digestion-bl...
You can get it here: www.stickmancommunications.co.uk/digestion-bl...
Reposted by Stickman Communications
And more detail on our latest estimate of what’s needed to afford essentials is here: 4/4
www.jrf.org.uk/social-secur...
www.jrf.org.uk/social-secur...
Guarantee our Essentials: reforming Universal Credit to ensure we can all afford the essentials in hard times
Losing your job, needing to care for a sick family member, breaking up with your partner – everyone’s circumstances can change. When they do, the social security system should ensure no one goes witho...
www.jrf.org.uk
February 2, 2026 at 8:38 AM
And more detail on our latest estimate of what’s needed to afford essentials is here: 4/4
www.jrf.org.uk/social-secur...
www.jrf.org.uk/social-secur...
Our 'poor immune system' cards are back in stock! - Providing a straight forward way to explain it to others so that they are aware of your needs, and should they become sick in the future, they know that it's important to stay away until well. These, like all our cards, are designed for people -
February 2, 2026 at 11:22 AM
Our 'poor immune system' cards are back in stock! - Providing a straight forward way to explain it to others so that they are aware of your needs, and should they become sick in the future, they know that it's important to stay away until well. These, like all our cards, are designed for people -
Reposted by Stickman Communications
One final thing on the ADHD medication prescribing change.
Medications help, but they can be part of the solution, not the solution.
Psychoeducation about ADHD from reliable sources, and working on skills/techniques will enable long term change and management.
Medications help, but they can be part of the solution, not the solution.
Psychoeducation about ADHD from reliable sources, and working on skills/techniques will enable long term change and management.
February 1, 2026 at 7:50 PM
One final thing on the ADHD medication prescribing change.
Medications help, but they can be part of the solution, not the solution.
Psychoeducation about ADHD from reliable sources, and working on skills/techniques will enable long term change and management.
Medications help, but they can be part of the solution, not the solution.
Psychoeducation about ADHD from reliable sources, and working on skills/techniques will enable long term change and management.
Today has been really tough - but also really constructive.
Not because of how much I've done - but because of how much self control I've used to *not do*.
There are so many tasks to do at my new house - including many that are manageable for me, but I didn't go. I rested and recharged today. It -
Not because of how much I've done - but because of how much self control I've used to *not do*.
There are so many tasks to do at my new house - including many that are manageable for me, but I didn't go. I rested and recharged today. It -
January 30, 2026 at 5:09 PM
Today has been really tough - but also really constructive.
Not because of how much I've done - but because of how much self control I've used to *not do*.
There are so many tasks to do at my new house - including many that are manageable for me, but I didn't go. I rested and recharged today. It -
Not because of how much I've done - but because of how much self control I've used to *not do*.
There are so many tasks to do at my new house - including many that are manageable for me, but I didn't go. I rested and recharged today. It -
Our updated 'mobility problems' card is in stock - with a plain or striped border. I'm really pleased with how they've turned out - a handy way to ask for a seat for people who's disability can also make spoken interactions difficult or impossible. And -
January 29, 2026 at 5:09 PM
Our updated 'mobility problems' card is in stock - with a plain or striped border. I'm really pleased with how they've turned out - a handy way to ask for a seat for people who's disability can also make spoken interactions difficult or impossible. And -
People parking partly on the pavement is common in the UK. Unfortunately this often means people using wheelchairs, rollators, and pushchairs or prams cannot get past - having to go right out into busy streets in order to get past cars that have parked on the pavement - creating unnecessary dangers
January 26, 2026 at 5:09 PM
People parking partly on the pavement is common in the UK. Unfortunately this often means people using wheelchairs, rollators, and pushchairs or prams cannot get past - having to go right out into busy streets in order to get past cars that have parked on the pavement - creating unnecessary dangers
The windows in my rented room were replaced. It's made the room warmer and less drafty, lighter and brighter, and I can reach to open the windows now too - so all really good. However, I also discovered: new windows STINK. at least, the caulk/sealant does! So I slept elsewhere the first night -
January 24, 2026 at 11:22 AM
The windows in my rented room were replaced. It's made the room warmer and less drafty, lighter and brighter, and I can reach to open the windows now too - so all really good. However, I also discovered: new windows STINK. at least, the caulk/sealant does! So I slept elsewhere the first night -
Sometimes you just need to let people know not to interrupt! If I'm brain fogged, I often have to restart a task if I'm interrupted because I lose my thread - and it's a bit soul destroying. So, here's the concentrating sign I designed, back in stock: www.stickmancommunications.co.uk/product-page...
January 23, 2026 at 5:31 PM
Sometimes you just need to let people know not to interrupt! If I'm brain fogged, I often have to restart a task if I'm interrupted because I lose my thread - and it's a bit soul destroying. So, here's the concentrating sign I designed, back in stock: www.stickmancommunications.co.uk/product-page...
That snuck up on me rather! I've just discovered that we are almost completely out of keyrings! It's going to take a few weeks to be able to order a new batch because I've got a large print run of cards on it's way already so I need to earn more before I can spend it!
January 20, 2026 at 6:30 PM
That snuck up on me rather! I've just discovered that we are almost completely out of keyrings! It's going to take a few weeks to be able to order a new batch because I've got a large print run of cards on it's way already so I need to earn more before I can spend it!
Reposted by Stickman Communications
I've just bought a house with my brother and family - and it's a total renovation job. So in order to survive I'm going to need to pace at an expert level! #PoTS #Hypermobility
So far I'm including strategies like wearing nice clothes when I drop in if I'm not well enough to manage practical stuff -
So far I'm including strategies like wearing nice clothes when I drop in if I'm not well enough to manage practical stuff -
Pacing through home renovations
This next few months will probably be the hardest period of pacing I've ever had to do! I've just bought a house with my brother and his family (his wife is one of my best friends since I was a kid).…
www.stickmancommunications.co.uk
January 19, 2026 at 11:22 AM
I've just bought a house with my brother and family - and it's a total renovation job. So in order to survive I'm going to need to pace at an expert level! #PoTS #Hypermobility
So far I'm including strategies like wearing nice clothes when I drop in if I'm not well enough to manage practical stuff -
So far I'm including strategies like wearing nice clothes when I drop in if I'm not well enough to manage practical stuff -
I've just bought a house with my brother and family - and it's a total renovation job. So in order to survive I'm going to need to pace at an expert level! #PoTS #Hypermobility
So far I'm including strategies like wearing nice clothes when I drop in if I'm not well enough to manage practical stuff -
So far I'm including strategies like wearing nice clothes when I drop in if I'm not well enough to manage practical stuff -
Pacing through home renovations
This next few months will probably be the hardest period of pacing I've ever had to do! I've just bought a house with my brother and his family (his wife is one of my best friends since I was a kid).…
www.stickmancommunications.co.uk
January 19, 2026 at 11:22 AM
I've just bought a house with my brother and family - and it's a total renovation job. So in order to survive I'm going to need to pace at an expert level! #PoTS #Hypermobility
So far I'm including strategies like wearing nice clothes when I drop in if I'm not well enough to manage practical stuff -
So far I'm including strategies like wearing nice clothes when I drop in if I'm not well enough to manage practical stuff -
1/3 Many neurodivergent people don't get clear signals from their body about what it needs. If I've been concentrating, or even just enjoying someone's company I may simply not notice that I need to loo until it physically hurts. Or I might not notice I'm hungry until I feel dizzy or nauseous .
January 16, 2026 at 6:30 PM
1/3 Many neurodivergent people don't get clear signals from their body about what it needs. If I've been concentrating, or even just enjoying someone's company I may simply not notice that I need to loo until it physically hurts. Or I might not notice I'm hungry until I feel dizzy or nauseous .
Important wheelchair use note: Logic says 'When it's raining, lean forward so your knees don't get soggy'. Experience says: Do NOT lean forward! Seriously! When you lean forward your coat channels all that rain down your back and onto your seat - so you then have to sit in a puddle and wet pants!
January 15, 2026 at 5:09 PM
Important wheelchair use note: Logic says 'When it's raining, lean forward so your knees don't get soggy'. Experience says: Do NOT lean forward! Seriously! When you lean forward your coat channels all that rain down your back and onto your seat - so you then have to sit in a puddle and wet pants!