Non-Visible Disabilities - What Are They And What Do They Look Like?

Could you tell from looking at the illustrations of these people that they have a disability?

It is becoming increasingly well-known that the number of disabled people is on the rise, with 16 million people in the UK alone now having a disability. That’s almost one in four people in the country. What is less spoken about, is that of those 16 million people, 80% have a non-visible disability. But just what are non-visible disabilities, and what do they look like? That’s what we will focus on in this blog post.

What Are Non-Visible Disabilities?

Non-visible disabilities are disabilities or conditions that are not immediately obvious. They can also be referred to as “hidden”, “invisible” or “less-visible” disabilities. It is important to keep in mind that even though someone’s disability may not be visible to you, it doesn’t mean that it does not exist.

What is the correct terminology?

If only there was a straight answer for this one! Whilst there is no right or wrong way to define non-visible disabilities, the term “non-visible” may be seen to be more inclusive of all people with different types of disabilities. Having said that, everybody has their own preferences, and it ultimately comes down to using the terminology that feels right for you. Whether that is “non-visible”, “hidden”, “invisible” or “less visible” - all are valid.

Different organisations use varying terminologies, such as the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, or Scope preferring to use “less visible” within their house style guide. The UK government refer to “non-visible” disabilities - so as you can see, it is all down to personal preference!

What Issues Do People With Non-Visible Disabilities Face?

• Because their needs aren’t visible, accessing the adjustments and accommodations needed is really hard for people with non-visible disabilities.

• Like with all disabilities, the way that society is built and the barriers that are in place can have a big impact on disabled people and make it hard to navigate the world around them.

• People with ‘dynamic disabilities’, such as ambulatory wheelchair users, or people who use a cane or AFO, can sometimes find that people are less accommodating for their needs as they are still able to mobilise in some way.

• It is common for people with non-visible disabilities to face stigma in society, where they are questioned on or even not believed to have their disability because “they look fine.” This can lead to not only having to deal with the physical problems that present themselves with a disability, such as accessibility barriers in society, but can also put a huge strain on disabled people’s mental health.

  
  

The illustrations of these people haven't changed, but now we can see their disabilities

How Can I Tell If Someone Has A Non-Visible Disability?

The simple answer is that you can’t! People with non-visible disabilities are not obliged to tell you they have a disability or explain what it is. It is that person’s choice to divulge as much or as little information as they are comfortable with. However, that being said, some people with non-visible disabilities will choose to signal their need for additional support, through the use of lanyards or badges - a great example of this is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard.

Some examples of non-visible disabilities include:

• Mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression

• Deaf/Hearing impairment

• Blind/Visual impairment

• Sensory Processing Disorder

• Autism

• Bladder and bowel conditions, such as Crohn’s Disease or urinary incontinence

How Can I Support People With Non-Visible Disabilities?

There are three key things that we can all do to make sure that we are supportive of people with non-visible disabilities:

1. Do not assume. As mentioned above, falling into the trap of assuming that a person “looks fine” can have a hugely negative impact. So remember to remain open-minded!

2. Listen! Accessibility looks and feels different to everybody, so being open to hearing how you can support someone with a non-visible disability allows you to work with them to accommodate them in a friendly and inclusive way.

3. Be respectful of someone’s needs. If you are made aware that someone has a non-visible disability, it is okay to let them know you are willing to help if they need it. It may be that the person doesn’t require your help initially, but knowing that you are open to supporting them with their needs means that they will be able to share with you what accommodations they may need you to help with as and when they arise.

Do you or someone you know have a non-visible disability? Has this blog post resonated with you? To learn more about Sociability and the mission we have for the disabled community, drop us a follow and join our community on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn!