Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week (10/20 – 10/26/24) is an annual observance in October aimed at raising awareness about disabilities that aren’t immediately visible to others.

It includes symptoms such as:

• debilitating pain
• autoimmune disease
• fatigue
• dizziness
• cognitive dysfunctions
• brain injuries
• learning differences
• mental health disorders
• hearing and vision impairments

Although not always obvious to an onlooker, they can limit daily activities and range from mild challenges to severe limitations that vary from person to person. What’s most important here is for all of us to remember that we cannot determine what others are capable of based on the way they look. This can be equally frustrating for those who may appear unable, but are perfectly capable, as well as those who appear able, but are not.

Everyone with a disability is different with varying challenges, needs, abilities and attributes. Let’s all show understanding and empathy towards those who live with invisible disabilities.