When the topic of “disability awareness” comes up, many think of visible disabilities, like those requiring a wheelchair. When discussing disability issues, thoughts often drift towards physical access—ramps and elevators. The focus tends to be on those who are unable to walk, see, or hear. However, there’s an entire spectrum of disabilities that remain unseen, and it’s crucial to include them in our discussions.
Invisible disabilities, as defined by the Individual Disabilities Association, refer to “physical, mental, or neurological conditions that are not outwardly apparent but can significantly limit a person’s movements, senses, or activities.” This often leads to misunderstandings: Why is that person parked in a handicapped spot? What accommodations do they truly need? Many individuals refrain from asking these questions, having learned the hard way not to do so.
A surprising statistic reveals that 74% of disabilities are invisible, meaning they don’t require assistive devices like wheelchairs or walkers. It’s important to recognize that having a disability varies greatly from person to person. Many individuals with disabilities lead full lives, working, parenting, and engaging in everyday activities, although they may face greater challenges than those without disabilities.
Disability Awareness Goes Beyond Wheelchair Access
When we advocate for “disability awareness,” the conversation isn’t solely about needing more accessible parking or ramps—although those are crucial. We also need to push for schools to uphold the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which guarantees children with diverse abilities access to appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. We are fighting for qualified aides for autistic children and ensuring that kids with ADHD are not punished for behaviors linked to their conditions.
Advocating for invisible disabilities also means striving for health parity, ensuring that mental healthcare and medications are covered equally to physical health services. For instance, the cost of ADHD medication can be staggering. Additionally, we must advocate for medical professionals to provide effective treatment for chronic pain without contributing to issues like the opioid crisis. This realm of advocacy encompasses a wide array of concerns, from better treatments for severe endometriosis to improved oversight of conservatorships.
The Public’s Apathy Toward Invisible Disabilities
There are several reasons why invisible disabilities often go unnoticed. First, they are, by nature, invisible. Second, people who don’t have such disabilities often find it easy to overlook them. Lastly, society has a tendency to ignore disabled individuals, particularly those with invisible conditions, viewing them as inconvenient and often feeling they should be embarrassed about their struggles.
Take, for example, someone like me; I live with bipolar II disorder. Most of the time, I function well, but there are moments when the combination of my condition and past trauma leads to severe depression, hindering my ability to work or care for my family. During these times, my husband must take time off work. Society may suggest I should feel ashamed, but why should I be embarrassed about a condition that is not visible? If my disability were physical, such as a broken leg, the reaction would likely be very different.
The Frustration of Accommodating Invisible Disabilities
Invisible disabilities can also frustrate others. A friend of mine has a severe allergy to cigarette smoke that can land her in the hospital. When asked to accommodate her by simply moving away from smoke, many people react negatively, as if they’re being asked to give up something vital. Parents of children with ADHD and autism often face similar challenges, as their children are sometimes misjudged as misbehaved.
When my immunocompromised friend requests that others wear masks, the reaction can be extreme. If she contracts a virus, she risks severe health repercussions, but some people treat her request as an unreasonable demand.
When discussing disability awareness, it’s crucial to recognize that there’s so much more than just wheelchairs and canes. Many people using accessible parking spaces may have valid reasons that are not immediately apparent. Invisible disabilities exist, and they deserve understanding. At the very least, let’s strive to be considerate.
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Summary
Raising awareness about disabilities includes recognizing the challenges faced by those with invisible conditions. Many individuals live with disabilities that are not readily apparent, yet they experience significant obstacles in daily life. Advocating for their rights and understanding their needs is essential for creating an inclusive society.
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