The Essex website uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are consenting to their use. Please visit our cookie policy to find out which cookies we use and why. View cookie policy.

Working at Essex
Employee Voice survey Starting at Essex Equality, diversity and inclusion Employment policies, procedures and guidance Managing people Pay, rewards and benefits Pensions Taking leave Grading and reviews Professional development and training Recruiting staff Working flexibility Information and data UECS and Wivenhoe House staff Forums and networks
Teaching and learning
Academic standards and quality DBS checks for students Department student support roles Developing student success Exams and assessment Heads of Department Learning technologies Reading lists Staff awards and funding Student feedback Student wellbeing support and signposting Supporting students with disabilities and health conditions Supporting and welcoming new students Timetables
Research
Funding sources Making a funding application Research impact Promoting your research and research visibility Research governance Take part in research Managing an award Planning and assessment Knowledge exchange and commercialisation Research systems Repository and publishing Research management information Celebrating Excellence Awards
Our University
Brand Departments and schools Faculty support Freedom of information Governance Graduation Sustainability and biodiversity University partnerships
Services and facilities
Buildings, grounds and maintenance Crowdfunding Childcare Design, print and copy services Events, meetings and conferences Faith Centre Finance, planning and data insight Food and drink IT services Marketing and communications support Media Centre Parking Post and property services Professional Services teams Sport and recreation Strategic project delivery Student work experience and volunteering Theatre and arts on campus Travel, transport and accommodation Web support
Health, safety and wellbeing
Emergencies, security and safety Activities health and safety Equipment safety Health and safety support Fire safety Reporting health and safety incidents or concerns Risk assessment Safeguarding Work and study environments Working with physical agents Working with substances Your health and wellbeing
Online services
Email login Research Information System Research Repository Room booking form Unit4 Business World Phonebook Change your password
People and Culture
HR Organiser People Manager Develop at Essex Homepage Job vacancies
Academic
Moodle Libraries Academic departments FASER LEAP MyTutor Programme specifications Reading lists (Talis Aspire)
Info and help
Find your way campus map IT services Tableau Planning information portal Key dates Staff blog Report harassment Report a concern about student
University of Essex homepage Blog Staff Invisible Disabilities Week
staff Blogs12 October 2023

Invisible Disabilities Week

Bryn Morris
Bryn Morris

Here in the United Kingdom, more than one in five adults are disabled, of which 80% will have a hidden, or invisible, disability. Invisible Disabilities Week is observed each October all over the world and is an important reminder that not all disabilities are obvious and that there are unique challenges faced by individuals living with hidden conditions. As the Inclusion Champion for Disability, I would like to take a moment to highlight this important week and the disabilities and challenges that may be described as either “hidden”, “invisible” or “non-visible”.

Invisible disabilities are conditions that are not immediately evident to others. They can encompass a wide range of medical and psychological conditions, including chronic pain, mental health disorders, autoimmune diseases, neurodiverse conditions and more. These conditions may not manifest in visible symptoms, making it difficult for others to comprehend the challenges individuals face, which can create unique forms of discrimination and stigma for those living with these disabilities.

Some of the more common challenges for those living with invisible disabilities include:

  • Social Stigma: Individuals with invisible disabilities often face scepticism or disbelief from others due to the lack of visible symptoms.
  • Accessibility: Many people with invisible disabilities require adjustments, accommodations and support, even though they may not appear to have a disability.
  • Mental Health: The emotional toll of living with a hidden condition can be significant, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
  • Advocacy: Advocating for one's needs can be difficult, especially when others may not fully understand or acknowledge the disability.

During Invisible Disabilities Week, there are several ways we as a community can participate and show our support:

  1. Take the time to learn about invisible disabilities, their impact, and the challenges faced by those living with them. The Wellbeing Directory on the University website is an excellent place to start.
  2. Share information or your own experience of invisible disabilities on social media, start conversations, and help debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding invisible disabilities. The Invisible Disabilities Association is a useful resource, offering badges and social media frames to help you promote the week to friends and family.
  3. Practice empathy and understanding when interacting with individuals who may have invisible disabilities. Listen and offer support without judgment.

Finally, do please take some time to explore the links below and the resources that our Wellbeing team have put together to provide information about, and support for, those with invisible disabilities and conditions.

Categories
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Essex Daily
Essex Spirit
People and Culture

About the Author:

Byrn Morris

Bryn Morris

Registrar and Secretary, University of Essex

Bryn Morris heads up the day-to-day running of the University of Essex. He reports to the Vice-Chancellor and is responsible for the overall administration of the University. He is also one of the University's disability diversity champions.

  • University of Essex
  • Wivenhoe Park
  • Colchester CO4 3SQ

 

CONNECT WITH US
© 2024 University of Essex. All rights reserved