The Unseen: Understanding Invisible Disabilities

The Unseen: Understanding Invisible Disabilities

Invisible disabilities, often referred to as hidden disabilities, are disabilities that are not immediately apparent. Unlike visible disabilities, which may be physically evident, invisible disabilities are conditions that affect a person’s functioning in ways that are not always outwardly observable. These conditions can impact individuals’ daily lives, relationships, and career prospects.

Some common examples of invisible disabilities include:

Chronic illnesses: Conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes can cause significant limitations but may not be outwardly visible.
Mental health conditions: Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are examples of mental health conditions that can have a profound impact on a person’s life but may not be immediately apparent.
Sensory impairments: Hearing loss and vision impairments that are not immediately apparent can significantly affect a person’s daily life.
Neurological conditions: Conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, and traumatic brain injury can cause a wide range of challenges but may not be immediately evident.
Chronic pain: Chronic pain conditions, such as migraines or nerve pain, can be debilitating but may not have visible symptoms.

CPWD Launches the Immigration Advocacy Coalition

CPWD Launches the Immigration Advocacy Coalition

Image: A woman smiles at her sister who is a wheelchair user and has IDD. Photo from https://informingfamilies.org/.   The Center for People with Disabilities (CPWD) has announced the formation of the People with Disabilities for Immigration Advocacy Coalition, a...

Building on a History of Advocacy, Envisioning the Future

Building on a History of Advocacy, Envisioning the Future

A Conversation with Rep. David Ortiz (Image: CPWD Community Organizer Craig Towler talks with Rep. David Ortiz at the Denver Capitol in March of 2023.)   Over the past two months, we’ve talked about several important independent living issues and topics. In July,...

The Independent Living Movement: Past, Present, and Future

The Independent Living Movement: Past, Present, and Future

(Image: Doug Brown and Gene Turitz, founders of Center for Independent Living’s Van Modification Shop, carrying the CIL banner at the Disabled Peoples’ Civil Rights Day March and Rally in San Francisco, Oct. 20, 1979. Credit: Ken Stein)   The Center for People...

Designing for All: The Power of Universal Design

Designing for All: The Power of Universal Design

(Image: Someone grabs a handrail in a bathroom, one component of Universal Design in the home.)   In today's world, where diversity is valued and inclusion is a priority, creating spaces that cater to everyone's needs is no longer a nicety, but a necessity. This...