The Survivor Newsletter: Winter 1998

What are the problems of having a "Hidden Disability?"

Author Carol Gill, Ph.D., is a psychologist and a person who deals with the late effects of polio. The article that follows was written for One Step Ahead, a cross-disability publication, to embrace the concerns of anyone who has a hidden disabiity.

Hidden disabilities often create misunderstandings. Other people, disabled or not, often assume that because such limitations are not immediately apparent, they are not as "real" or difficult as more obvious disabilities. In truth, learning problems, emotional or physical pain fatigue, chemical sensitivities or chronic illness can affect day-to-day life just as dramatically as mobility and sensory disabilities. Besides, the concept of a "disability contest" is absurd. The experience of disability is too socially complex and multi-faceted to measure simply by comparing one person’s degree of medical impairment to another’s.

Some of the most confusing aspects of managing a hidden disability is deciding what to say to others about it. If you keep it to yourself, people are left guessing about any differences they sense in you. Some of the explanations they come up with on their own are real dillies! On the other hand, if you talk about your disability freely, you may encounter some who think you are exaggerating or faking limitations to gain sympathy or legal privileges.

As a psychologist, I can offer two suggestions:

Find some peers with similar disability issues: You can learn their strategies while getting some well-deserved support. Independent living centres, hospitals, city services, disabled student service departments at universities and even the Yellow Pages may have information about specific disability organisations and support groups.

Examine your own feelings about identifying as disabled: Your feelings may influence how others treat you. As you down-playing your differences because you are ashamed of being disabled? Are you hiding your disability to prevent employment discrimination or social rejection? Are you narrowly focused on disability in your conversations with others? Do you realise that being able to "pass" as non-disabled can be both an advantage and a curse, neither of which is an option for those with visible disabilities

If you are ambivalent or unclear about your disability identity, you are more likely to encounter difficulties: You may use up a good deal of energy covering up your differences or worrying about exposure. You also risk exclusion or criticism from people who do openly identify as disabled.

Although it is no guarantee that others will welcome you with open arms, learning to accept yourself honestly and unapologetically, can promote respect from your associates, fortify you through many ups and downs and help you appreciate your own company.

"From Polio-Post News, North Central Florida Post-Polio Support Group. 7108 SW 182 Court, Dunnellon, Florida 34432"