the forum is available if you want to chat to people
click here for the forum
but you look so well!
As the name suggests these invisible disabilities are debilitating but are not obvious.
For example a person with arthritis of the spine would not look disabled, but
could be in constant pain and unable to walk far or stand for more than a minute
or two.
So how do you identify people with hidden disabilities? The answer is you cannot.
These invisible disabilities are very real, affecting people's lives and often severely
limiting what they can do on a daily basis.
Even on public transport many people need to have a seat because of the pain or difficulty
that they have in standing. So who gives up their seat for an apparently healthy individual?
Even sitting in a chair reserved for disabled people is embarrassing for someone whose
disability is not visible or obvious.
Invisible disabilities, which can be referred to as hidden disabilities, such as arthritus, chronic fatigue, lupus, fibromyalgia and cancer all affect people in a way that is not obvious to the casual viewer.
How you can help
Don't judge a book by it's cover!
If you see someone who looks as if they are struggling, don't ignore them. Even a smile can help make someone feel better.
Offer help, but do not just jump in and do what you think, you could end up making matters worse if you do the wrong thing. Ask if you can help, don't be offended if the person says no!
If the person does says no thank you, please don't feel bad, most people with disabilities try to be as independant as possible or are very determined to beat their problems themselves.
Visit our new forum on http://www.fellowshipandfriends.com
Brentwood Gazette Story
BRENTWOOD: 'Invisibly disabled' woman starts support group
Monday, March 09, 2009
