Invisible disabilities are neurological, mental or physical conditions that cannot be seen or aren’t obvious to others but can significantly affect daily life at work, home or during socialization. A hidden disability has many social challenges due to various people not believing there is something wrong if they can’t see it which can lead to accusations of people faking it and the development of social stigmas around hidden disabilities.
There is a considerable lack of public understanding regarding invisible disabilities in society. Hidden disabilities can range from mental health and autoimmune disorders to chronic pain and sensory or neurological impairments and just because we can’t see them, it doesn’t mean that they aren’t there.
Navigating Social Challenges
An invisible disability doesn’t fit the stereotype of a disabled person such as using a wheelchair or walking aid and so they often face various difficulties in society as if they have to prove that they do have a disability which can be deeply frustrating and upsetting. More needs to be done in society to help people with hidden disabilities fit in and feel welcomed without being judged by others.
Everyone with an invisible disability will have surely heard the words ‘but you don’t look sick’ at some point in their life from co-workers, the public and even healthcare providers! Judgement from others is a part of everyday life, especially when using priority seating, disabled parking and accessible toilets. This constant judgement and scepticism can cause social isolation in people with disabilities which is very tiring to try and fit in to a social situation while also trying to mask any pain or symptoms.
There are many social challenges that people with invisible disabilities face everyday but steps are being made to make people feel more welcome and safe in society with various initiatives designed to improve understanding and provide support.
Support and Initiatives for Hidden Disabilities
- Sunflower lanyard
The sunflower lanyard has become a worldwide signal to symbolize that the wearer has a hidden disability and may need extra support, understanding and time in public spaces. This offers a more discreet way of expressing a hidden disability.
- Support networks
There are many organizations that offer additional support and resources like Path-Now to ensure people can connect with others who may have similar conditions to reduce social isolation and encourage improved mental health and wellbeing.
- Advocacy
People with hidden disabilities can request necessary accommodations to be made under the Equality Act and Americans with Disabilities Act to reduce social challenges and increase productivity.
- Increased education
Workplaces and public spaces can be more inclusive to hidden disabilities if they receive the appropriate education and awareness to increase their understanding and learn what they can do to remove the barriers that people with disabilities face.
Programs such as Path-Now offer people with hidden disabilities a wide range of support and resources to help navigate public spaces. There needs to be more information available to help people understand invisible disabilities and reduce the stigma that can affect so many people’s lives.
