In News

With the recent news that Wetherspoons pubs have launched a campaign so that staff and guests are aware that not everyone with radar keys or in need of the accessible toilets have visible disabilities, we thought we’d put together a list of things people need to know about hidden disabilities.

Hidden disabilities take many different forms and can have a whole host of symptoms which can affect people in very different ways, even if they have the same condition. Having an invisible disability can mean being in chronic pain, having fatigue, memory problems, needing extra space and more. Recently, the UK marked Invisible Disabilities Week which aimed to raise awareness and understanding of those living with conditions such as FND, epilepsy, fibromayalgia, Chronic Fatigue, Chron’s disease, autism and others.

Here are a few things you should know when it comes to hidden disabilities.

  • Importantly, just because someone doesn’t have a wheelchair or a mobility aid doesn’t mean that they don’t have a disability, so don’t question their use of a Blue Badge or an accessible toilet.
  • Just because someone looks and sounds fine, doesn’t mean they are.
    Many people with hidden disabilities are dealing with chronic pain, chronic fatigue or a whole host of other symptoms that aren’t immediately obvious. Those with an invisible disability may take their time when walking around or behave strangely in shops or other areas that have lights and sounds as these can be overwhelming. Just be aware and don’t judge those that are being slow or behaving in an odd way.
  • Asking for help can be hard, so don’t judge.
    Because it isn’t immediately obvious, those who have hidden disabilities can sometimes struggle with having to ask for assistance or even using facilities that are there to help, such as accessible toilets, parking spaces and lifts. Judgements can make this even worse and leave people to struggle in silence – so don’t be judgemental!
  • Don’t just assume people are lazy
    Those that have conditions such as Chronic Fatigue and Fibromayalgia can often find themselves getting overwhelmed and tired easily, they may need space to rest while out and about, so don’t just assume someone is being lazy if you see them using priority seats or stopping for a rest.
  • Make allowances for those that need breaks for medication
    Many people with invisible disabilities have medication that they need to take at certain times of day or may need to eat at certain times, particularly if they have conditions such as diabetes or certain digestive disorders. Just be aware that people may need to excuse themselves at certain times of day and that just because someone looks well, doesn’t mean that they don’t rely on medication.


Do you or someone you know have an invisible condition? Let us know of any other suggestions that can help raise awareness. Get in touch on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

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