Let’s be honest: when you hear the term “disability awareness,” your mind likely goes straight to images of individuals using wheelchairs. You probably associate “disability issues” with concerns like wheelchair accessibility—think ramps and elevators. You might think of someone unable to walk, see, or hear. If you’re particularly open-minded and actually take a moment to ponder the term “disabled”—a subject many prefer to overlook—you might even think of things like accessible parking spaces or automatic doors. However, it’s likely that invisible disabilities haven’t crossed your mind at all. You might not even be familiar with the term.
According to the Individual Disabilities Association, an invisible disability refers to “a physical, mental, or neurological condition that is not outwardly visible but can hinder a person’s movements, senses, or activities.” This is where the conversation about disability can get complicated. Many people find themselves questioning why someone might be using a handicap spot or needing accommodations. Too often, those with invisible disabilities feel the need to stay silent about their struggles.
Here’s a startling fact: around 74% of disabilities are invisible, meaning they don’t necessitate the use of a wheelchair, walker, or other visible assistive devices.
It’s crucial to understand that living with a disability varies greatly from person to person. Many individuals with disabilities hold full-time jobs, raise families, and go about their daily lives just like anyone else, albeit with greater difficulty in certain aspects.
Beyond Wheelchair Accessibility
When discussing “disability awareness,” the conversation isn’t solely about advocating for more accessible parking spaces and ramps—though those are undeniably essential. The inclusion of invisible disabilities in this dialogue means we need schools to uphold the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which guarantees that children with diverse abilities receive “a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.” We’re advocating for autistic children to have access to qualified aides and ensuring that kids with ADHD aren’t unfairly punished for behaviors linked to their conditions. I’ve had many heated discussions about this, from family gatherings to homeschool groups.
Advocating for invisible disabilities also encompasses the fight for health parity: mental healthcare and medications must be covered equally alongside physical healthcare. Want to know how much my ADHD medication costs? It’s a lot, and it shouldn’t be that way. This fight extends to ensuring that healthcare professionals can adequately address chronic pain without exacerbating issues like the opioid crisis. Did you know that my husband struggles to receive proper treatment for his debilitating post-shingles pain without being offered highly addictive medications? The fight for the rights of individuals with invisible disabilities is vast. It ranges from pushing for better treatments for severe endometriosis to calling for greater oversight of conservatorships.
The Public’s Indifference to Invisible Disabilities
Why does society largely disregard invisible disabilities?
- They’re not visible.
- If someone hasn’t experienced one, it’s easy to overlook.
- Society tends to sideline disabled individuals, particularly those with invisible disabilities, who may be seen as burdensome or embarrassing.
Take my case, for example. I live with bipolar II disorder. Most days, I’m fine. However, there are moments—maybe twice a year—when my condition and past trauma collide, resulting in a deep depression. During those times, I can’t work, parent, or even engage in basic activities; all I can manage is to stay home and binge-watch videos. My husband often has to take leave from work for me during these episodes.
Society implies I should be ashamed of this. If my disability were visible, people would likely respond differently. So why should I feel embarrassed about experiencing severe depression?
The unfortunate truth is that, because I don’t appear disabled, it’s easy for others to question my need for support or accommodations. “Just tough it out,” they might say. This mindset can lead to resentment toward individuals like me, especially when it means someone else has to make adjustments, such as taking time off work.
Invisible Disabilities Can Be Frustrating for Others
Living with an invisible disability is challenging—not just because of the disability itself, but also because it can irritate those around us. For instance, a friend of mine has a severe allergy to cigarette smoke that can land her in the hospital if she’s exposed to it. When she requests accommodations, like asking someone to move away from her, people often react as though they’ve been asked to make a major sacrifice. Parents of children with ADHD and autism often face similar frustrations, as bystanders may view their children as misbehaving rather than understanding their unique needs.
When my immunocompromised friend asks people to wear masks, the backlash can be overwhelming. If she contracts COVID-19, her health could be severely compromised. Yet, it feels like she’s asking for the impossible.
So, as you engage in conversations about disability awareness, remember that the spectrum extends far beyond wheelchairs and canes. Issues of accessibility, while critical, are just one part of a larger dialogue. That person parking in the accessible spot may have a legitimate reason that isn’t immediately evident. Invisible disabilities are real. Show empathy, and at the very least, try not to let them get under your skin.
For more insights, check out our other blog post here, and for authoritative information on artificial insemination, visit Make a Mom and Hopkins Medicine.
Summary
Disability awareness should include invisible disabilities, which make up a significant portion of all disabilities. Many individuals with invisible disabilities face challenges that are often overlooked by society. Advocacy for these individuals involves fighting for equal rights in education, healthcare, and public accommodations. It’s essential to foster understanding and empathy for those who live with invisible conditions, as their struggles are just as valid as those with visible disabilities.
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