Not All Disabilities Are Visible_ Understanding Hidden Disability

1. Not All Disabilities Are Visible: Understanding Hidden Disability Disability isn’t always visible. While many associate disability with mobility aids or guide dogs, a significant number of Australians live with disabilities that aren’t obvious to the eye—often referred to as hidden or invisible disabilities. Living My Way, a registered NDIS provider, is committed to recognising and supporting every person’s needs—regardless of whether their disability is visible or not. What Are Hidden Disabilities? Hidden disabilities can affect how someone thinks, moves, learns, interacts or experiences their environment, but these conditions may not be immediately noticeable. Some common examples include: ● Autism and ADHD ● PTSD or mental health conditions ● Acquired brain injuries ● Learning disabilities ● Chronic fatigue or pain ● Sensory processing disorders ● Epilepsy ● Hearing or vision impairments that aren’t obvious

2. Although these conditions may not be seen, they can profoundly affect a person’s day-to-day experience. Many individuals face the added burden of needing to explain or validate their condition to others. Why Greater Awareness Is So Important Living with a hidden disability often means dealing with misunderstanding, judgement, or even exclusion. People may be questioned when using accessible services, overlooked in the workplace, or denied appropriate accommodations simply because their disability isn’t “visible.” These situations can contribute to stress, low confidence, or reluctance to ask for help. That’s why spreading awareness and promoting understanding is essential—so individuals feel supported without needing to prove or explain their condition. The Sunflower Program: A Discreet Signal of Support The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, which began in the UK and is now used in Australia, offers a simple way for people with invisible disabilities to discreetly indicate that they may need extra patience, time or assistance. Wearing a sunflower lanyard or badge is entirely optional, but it can help others recognise and respond more compassionately. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference in everyday interactions—whether at airports, stores or on public transport. Learn more at: hdsunflower.com/au Making Employment More Inclusive There are also promising developments in the employment space. The Australian Federal Police’s Dandelion Program, for instance, helps neurodivergent individuals—including those with autism—gain meaningful, supported employment. This highlights the strength and potential of individuals with hidden disabilities when given the right environment. How to Be an Ally Whether someone has a disability or not, everyone can play a role in creating a more inclusive society: ● Avoid assumptions—disability isn’t always visible. ● Be patient—someone may need more time, clarity or space. ● Respect privacy—not everyone wants or needs to share their diagnosis. ● Stay informed—awareness leads to understanding. ● Use inclusive language and support accessibility in design. ● Value every person—each story and ability brings something unique. Support That Sees the Whole Person At Living My Way, every person is supported as an individual—not a diagnosis. Whether a disability is visible or hidden, the focus is on providing respectful, empowering support that meets people where they are.

3. By listening, understanding, and standing beside those with invisible disabilities, we can all contribute to a community where every person feels seen and supported. Want to Connect? For support tailored to your needs—or to learn more about how Living My Way can assist you or someone you care about, get in touch: Phone: (02) 8525 4000 Email: operations@lmwl.org.au Or complete the online enquiry form on theLiving My Way website.