INVISIBLE
DISABILITY
In Focus
"See more clearly when you are informed"
Invisible Disability is a term used to describe a wide range of physical and mental conditions which are often chronic and not immediately apparent to the eye. Because of the “hidden” nature of their disability those who live with one of these conditions often face challenges unique to their position. Below you will find key terms, statistics, and other useful tools to understand and talk about Invisible Disabilities. If you would like to know more, consider coming to an Inform Your Community event. Our next one can be found below in the section labeled Our Events. We host them virtually, on a wide range of topics, discussing policy, civics, and current events.
Key Terms You Should Know
Neurodiversity:
The variety of minds that incorporate cognitive processes different from those more common (e.g., hyperfocus); often used for those with ASD, ADD, or ADHD.
Mental Wellness:
The ability to use tools and tricks that address and alleviate discord/trauma/stress in order to rebalance; in contrast people can experience burnout.
Accommodation:
An alteration of environment, equipment, tools, or other resources that allows a person with a disability to have equal access (e.g., flex days).
Temporarily Abled:
The idea that the being equipped to perform certain functions is fleeting because everyone encounters health problems at some point in their lives.
Disability/Differently Abled/ Impairment/Neurodivergent/
Special Needs:
Terms used to describe people who are not 'typically' abled.
Moments In History
1771 - The creation of The National Institute for Deaf-Mutes and 'Old French Sign Language.'
1950s - Witebsky and Rose disprove the idea that the body cannot produce antibodies against itself.
2023 - April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day
1800s - Louis Braille modifies Charles Barbier's "night writing" to make Braille.
1990 - The Americans with Disabilities Act
Statistics
The National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing claims that 1/5 U.S. adults experienced mental illness in 2020.
According to an article by Disabled Word, sources estimate between 3 and 26 million Americans suffer from Fibromyalgia, now understood to be the most common cause of chronic musculoskeletal pain.
According to research by the Autoimmunity Association, autoimmune diseases affect more than 24 million people in the U.S.
10% of Americans have a medical condition which could be considered an invisible disability. 96% of people with chronic medical conditions live with a condition that is invisible, based on a research by the University of Massachusetts.
Values
Self-advocacy
"Out of Spoons"
Self-care
Support System
"Nothing about us without us"
Notable Names
Albert Einstein
Kay Jamison
Temple Grandin
Venus Williams
Clifford Beers
Symbols
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Our Events
Past
Future
Further Resources
Invisible Disability Infographic
Share what you have learned about Invisible Disabilities. Our Infographic has been designed to be shared easily by printing, emailing, or posting on social media. Click on the image to view or download the PDF File.
(Not for commercial use)
Know-It-All Event Video
Our speaker event was insightful and fun! The interesting anecdotes from Wendiann Alfieri, Laura Laria, Jacob Levy, and Erica Miller, were invaluable and truly entertaining. Watch the video to further understand the need to understand invisible disabilities and embrace a more empathetic lifestyle. You can also make an event out of it yourself by hosting your own Know-It-All Watch: Invisible Disability Discussion Party. Feel free to share this video with others!
(Not for commercial use)
Take Action
Check out the Values section on this page to learn how you can increase your inclusivity on a daily basis!
Share our Invisible Disability Infographic with friends, family, and anyone and everyone you think would appreciate becoming more informed!
Commit to one invisible disability friendly action each week!
Show your support online, in social media, or in person the next time you have the opportunity to promote a more inclusive and empathetic lifestyle!
Educate yourself about what tools and tricks can bolster your mental wellness!