Home 9 Uncategorized 9 Hidden in Plain Sight: Bringing Visibility to Invisible Disability

Hidden in Plain Sight: Bringing Visibility to Invisible Disability

Jul 1, 2021 | Uncategorized

Everyone has different characteristics that can present unique challenges throughout life. Physical disabilities like paralysis, muscular dystrophy, and blindness often require living aids you probably recognize- a wheelchair, crutches, seeing-eye dog, or prosthetic limb. People living with these conditions often wear this aspect of their identity on their sleeves. At a glance, most people automatically interpret assistive devices as an indicator of disability. However, a large majority of people with impairments slip under the radar of public scrutiny. That’s because over 74% of those with disabilities have “hidden” or “invisible” disabilities. Disabilities are conditions that limit or impair a person’s ability to function in daily life. They can affect:

  • Vision
  • Movement
  • Thinking
  • Remembering
  • Learning
  • Communicating
  • Hearing
  • Mental health
  • Social relationships

Conditions like mental illness, fibromyalgia, HIV or AIDs, Lyme disease, and diabetes can present unique challenges that are undetectable to outsiders.

The Disability Spectrum

Disabilities are not a constant, all-or-nothing state. A person can have reduced vision without complete blindness. Someone can live with impaired motor functioning and still maintain the ability to walk. Even two people with the same disability can be affected in different ways! And just like your health fluctuates from day to day, so can symptoms of disabilities. Certain times, situations, or circumstances can exacerbate symptoms, making them more pronounced. For example, a person with fibromyalgia may have the ability to walk but choose to use a motorized cart while shopping to help conserve energy and alleviate pain. Someone with impaired vision may use a cane to help navigate unfamiliar places. Regardless of outward appearance, many people face unseen challenges navigating everyday life.

 

Outward Appearance Informs Expectations of Behavior 

Because invisible disabilities don’t offer visual evidence, it’s easy for outsiders to dismiss the effects of these medical conditions. Those living with hidden disabilities are often subject to scrutiny and judgment. For example, a student with a learning disability may need more time to process information while taking an exam. Unaware classmates could misinterpret this accommodation as favoritism. Someone with autism may behave differently in social settings, where they may be shunned or criticized by peers. 

People often base their expectations of behavior or ability on outward appearance. If someone looks physically fine, they are expected to act fine. This misinformed view can lead to assumptions that a person with an invisible disability is faking their condition, exaggerating symptoms to avoid responsibilities, or causing the impairment themselves through their personal choices. Such assumptions are dangerous because they can damage relationships, impact career trajectory, create barriers to treatment, undermine self-worth, and diminish the experiences of the disabled community. Appearances are deceiving, and perceptions of ability based on outward appearance often cause those with invisible disabilities to feel pressured to “prove” their impairment.

Why People Hide Their Disabilities

Many people with invisible disabilities choose to remain anonymous. They may worry how revealing this aspect of their identity will change how others view them. They may fear stigmatization, judgment, or being defined by their disability. Although the Americans with Disabilities Act outlines formal protections, it doesn’t automatically create a welcoming and accepting society. Even those who meet the legal definition of having a disability may not feel the term applies to them if their condition is inconspicuous. Those with invisible disabilities often have their experiences questioned or invalidated, especially when using public accommodations. It’s easy to understand why someone using a wheelchair needs access to a handicapped parking space, but a person with an invisible disability may face suspicion and outright hostility.

Invisible disabilities can even be hidden from those they affect. Social stigma masks symptoms by attributing medical conditions to character flaws. Someone may be labeled as lazy or apathetic when they are actually coping with undiagnosed or untreated depression. Invisible doesn’t mean imaginary, and conditions that are not detectable to the naked eye still have a tangible impact on the lives they affect.

Invisible disabilities like chronic pain, diabetes, and mental illness only become visible when individuals choose to disclose them. That’s why it’s critical to make a conscious effort to dispel the stigma surrounding disability- because everyone deserves to receive the proper care and accommodations to participate fully in life. 

From coffee to soda to energy drinks, caffeine is a part of daily life for many of us. And while it is naturally occurring, overconsumption can cause health problems such as increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, anxiety, headaches, and insomnia. For this blog, we sat down with Susie Roberts, a Registered Dietitian to discuss all things caffeine—why it’s such a big part of our lives, how much of it is in the food items many people enjoy regularly, and how much is too much. We’ll also talk about current trends and tips on how to boost your energy naturally so you can stop relying on caffeine to keep you energized throughout the day.

Q: Just this morning, I heard someone say “I’m not caffeinated enough for this day!” It really is such a big part of our daily lives. Why do you think that is?
A: It’s not surprising at all to hear that! About 90% of American adults consume caffeine daily. People are looking for ways to boost their energy and increase alertness and caffeine is readily available and socially acceptable.

Q: So, what exactly is caffeine, and how does it work?
A: Caffeine is a natural stimulant that affects the central nervous system. After consumption, it’s absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain, where it blocks the effects of adenosine—a chemical that promotes sleep. This interference helps you feel more alert and awake.

Caffeine typically reaches your brain within 15 minutes, peaks in the bloodstream at 30 to 120 minutes, and has a half-life of 3 to 7 hours.

Q: Everyone knows that coffee and many soft drinks contain caffeine. But where else can it be found? If we are consuming these beverages and other items, how can we know the amount of caffeine we are getting?
A: Energy drinks have become very popular—especially among young adults. These contain not only caffeine, but may also have added sugars, so it’s a double whammy. Chocolate and many varieties of tea also contain caffeine. You may also want to check out any nutrition supplements or medications you are taking. And, many people may not realize it, but even decaf coffee contains a certain amount of caffeine.

How Much Caffeine Am I Really Getting

Q: How much is too much when it comes to caffeine?
A: For most healthy adults, the FDA says up to 400 mg per day is safe. That’s about 4 cups of coffee. But you need to remember, that’s based on an 8 oz cup. Many people order an extra-large coffee, so you need to be aware of exactly how much you are taking in. Each individual reacts differently to caffeine based on their genetics, medications, and sleep habits.

How Much Is Too Much? Make Sure You Know Your Limits.

Q: What are the current trends in caffeine consumption?
A: As I mentioned before, energy drinks are increasing in popularity. They haven’t taken over coffee in the top spot, but Americans spent $19.2 billion on them in 2023 and that’s expected to rise to $33 billion by 2030. Coffee remains at the top, accounting for 69% of total caffeine intake, an increase of 15% in the last decade. And while the number of tea drinkers has dropped by 50%, those who drink it are consuming more.

Current Caffeine Consumption Trends.

Q: How can I be more aware about the amount of caffeine I’m getting?
A: Mindful consumption of caffeine is being intentional about what, when, and how much you consume. Track your intake and pay attention to any potential unwanted side effects like jitters or difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep. Are you sleeping 6-8 hours a night and waking refreshed? If not, consider a “hard stop” 10 hours before your bedtime. Remember, that cup of coffee you had at 8 am can potentially still be in your system at 5 pm, so it’s important to time it right. And finally, if you decide you want to reduce your caffeine consumption, do it slowly to minimize any withdrawal symptoms such as headaches.

Be Mindful of Your Caffeine Consumption.

Q: Sometimes though, you need extra energy when you hit that afternoon slump. Can you suggest any alternative ways to get that boost and avoid turning to caffeine?
A: There are a few simple ways you can get that energy boost. First, make sure you are hydrated. Water supports joint health, oxygen delivery, temperature regulation, skin health, and more. You also want to move—even a short walk or stretch break can help. Make sure your meals are balanced with a protein and complex carbs. And most importantly, rest and recover. Sometimes rest—not more coffee—is what your body needs.

How Can I Boost My Energy Naturally.

Q: So, what are your final thoughts on caffeine?
A:  Caffeine can be part of a healthy lifestyle and may even offer some health benefits—but it’s all about balance and awareness. If you’re reaching for that third cup of coffee at 3 pm, pause and ask: Am I actually tired, hungry, or just in a habit? And then give one of the things we talked about a try, to get that energy boost naturally and see if that caffeine craving goes away.

Skip to content