Disability Awareness
5 min read
Understanding Hidden Disability and Its Impact
Written by
Georgina, Founder of Purpl
Published on
September 19, 2025
Not every disability is visible. Some people live with challenges you can’t see at a glance, and that can make life feel even harder. This guide is here to shine a light on hidden disabilities, the barriers people face, and the ways we can all play a part in creating a more supportive, inclusive world.
At a glance
- Hidden disabilities aren’t obvious but can affect every part of daily life.
- They can include things like autism, ADHD, chronic pain, and mental health conditions.
- Awareness and kindness go a long way in making life more accessible for everyone.
In this Article
- What is a Hidden Disability?
- What are Some Common Examples of Hidden Disabilities?
- What Challenges do Individuals with Hidden Disabilities Face?
- How can I Support Someone with a Hidden Disability?
- Is Mental Health Considered a Hidden Disability?
- How can Employers Accommodate Employees with Hidden Disabilities?
- What Resources are Available for People with Hidden Disabilities?
- How can I Disclose My Hidden Disability to Others?
- Are There Legal Protections for Individuals with Hidden Disabilities?
- Final Thoughts
What is a Hidden Disability?
A hidden disability is any condition that isn’t obvious to others but still has a real impact on daily life. Unlike visible disabilities, a hidden disability may not be recognised at first glance, which can make it harder for people to get the understanding or support they need.
These disabilities can include neurological differences such as autism or ADHD, long-term health conditions like epilepsy or diabetes, chronic pain and fatigue conditions such as fibromyalgia, and mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Each person’s experience is unique, and the effects can vary widely.
Because a hidden disability can’t always be seen, others may underestimate its impact or even question if it exists. This can lead to stigma, judgement, or barriers to accessing the right help. Raising awareness helps break down these misunderstandings and makes it easier for people to feel believed and supported.
What are Some Common Examples of Hidden Disabilities?
Common examples of hidden disabilities include:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression
- Chronic pain conditions, like fibromyalgia
- Learning disabilities, such as dyslexia
But it is also worth understanding how hidden disabilities can show up in all kinds of everyday settings. Here are a few examples:
- In the workplace: Someone with chronic fatigue may need flexible hours, but without visible signs, colleagues may mistake this for lack of commitment.
- At school: A child with ADHD might be labelled as disruptive when in reality, they need structured support and patience.
- When travelling: A person with a hidden disability like autism or anxiety might find noisy, crowded environments overwhelming, yet others may not realise they are struggling.
- In public spaces: Someone living with chronic pain may need to sit down on public transport, but without a visible aid like crutches or a wheelchair, they may be judged for taking a priority seat.
These examples show how easily hidden disabilities can be overlooked, and why understanding and awareness matter so much. By recognising that not all disabilities are visible, we can create more supportive spaces where everyone feels seen and respected.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with a hidden disability is unique.
What Challenges do Individuals with Hidden Disabilities Face?
Hidden disabilities can bring a unique set of barriers that are often invisible to others. Because the challenges are not always obvious, people may feel misunderstood, dismissed, or left out of vital support. Here are some of the most common difficulties:
- Stigma and judgement: When a hidden disability isn’t visible, others may assume someone is “fine” or even doubt their condition altogether. This lack of belief can feel isolating and lead to unfair treatment.
- Accessing support and care: Whether it’s healthcare, benefits, or day-to-day adjustments, people with a hidden disability often struggle to have their needs taken seriously. Getting the right help can mean facing long battles with systems that aren’t designed for invisible conditions.
- Exclusion in everyday spaces: Workplaces, schools, and social environments may not be set up for inclusion. Without awareness, rules and expectations often overlook the needs of those living with a hidden disability, making it harder to thrive.
- The burden of masking: Many people with hidden disabilities feel pressure to hide their struggles or explain themselves repeatedly. This constant effort can cause stress, anxiety, or exhaustion and takes a toll on mental wellbeing.
The good news? Awareness and small acts of kindness can make an enormous difference. Listening without judgement, offering flexibility, and simply believing someone when they talk about their condition are powerful ways to create a more inclusive world.
Awareness and education can help mitigate some of these challenges.
How can I Support Someone with a Hidden Disability?
Being supportive doesn’t mean having all the answers — it’s about showing kindness and being open. Here are some simple but powerful ways to help:
- Listen first — without judgement or assumptions.
- Be flexible — small adjustments (like a quieter space, more time, or clear communication) can make things easier.
- Advocate for inclusion — whether at work, school, or in public.
- Encourage help — gently suggesting professional support if needed.
Is Mental Health Considered a Hidden Disability?
Because these struggles aren’t always seen, people may face stigma or be told they’re “fine,” which makes it harder to seek help and can lead to isolation. Recognising mental health as a hidden disability encourages empathy, validates experiences, and ensures people receive the support and respect they need.
Seeing mental health as a disability helps build empathy and reminds us to offer the right support when it’s needed most.
How can Employers Accommodate Employees with Hidden Disabilities?
Workplaces have a huge role to play. Simple steps can make a world of difference:
- Offering flexibility (remote work, adjusted hours).
- Providing access to mental health support.
- Training staff on disability awareness.
- Making small but meaningful adjustments to the workspace.
Talking openly is the first step to understanding hidden disabilities at work.
What Resources are Available for People with Hidden Disabilities?
Resources can include:
- Local councils often have dedicated disability services and advice.
- Disability charities like Scope and Disability Rights UK run support groups and community networks.
- Online forums such as HealthUnlocked offer spaces where people share lived experiences and tips.
- Government resources like employment support can provide practical help.
How can I Disclose My Hidden Disability to Others?
It’s your choice whether or not to disclose. If you decide to open up:
- Pick a safe, trusted space.
- Be clear about what you need.
- Prepare for mixed reactions — not everyone will understand straight away.
Your story is yours to share, in your own time and on your own terms.
Are There Legal Protections for Individuals with Hidden Disabilities?
In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 protects people with hidden disabilities from discrimination in work, education, and public life. It makes clear that a disability does not need to be visible to be recognised.
The law also requires reasonable adjustments so that people with hidden disabilities are not put at a disadvantage. This might mean flexible working hours, quiet spaces, extra exam time, or accessible seating — tailored to each person’s needs.
Knowing your rights under the Equality Act can help you feel more confident asking for support and reminding organisations of their duty to be inclusive.
Find out more in the Equality Act 2010 guidance on GOV.UK.
Final Thoughts
Hidden disabilities may not be visible, but the challenges are very real. By building awareness and showing compassion, we can make life that little bit easier — and fairer — for everyone.
If you’re looking for support, check out local organisations, online groups, or charities that focus on hidden disabilities. You’re not alone, and support is out there.
About the Author
Georgina is the founder of Purpl, a platform dedicated to helping disabled people save money through exclusive discounts. Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and ADHD, she understands firsthand the financial challenges of living with a disability. Her mission is to work with brands to secure discounts that ease the cost of essential products, services, and everyday expenses for the disabled community.
As an ambulatory wheelchair user, Georgina knows how it feels to lose independence due to a disability. She is passionate about holistic therapies and diet to manage inflammation and stay as healthy as possible. Her goal is to make Purpl an essential resource for disabled people, offering practical support, advice, and financial relief.
Beyond Purpl, Georgina has a long-term vision to launch a foundation providing grants for disabled people who need extra financial support.
Follow @Purpldiscounts on social media for the latest disability discounts, financial advice, and accessibility resources.
Other articles, or links, you might find useful:
Hidden Disability Cards: A Small Card That Makes a Big Difference
Asking for Reasonable Adjustments at Work: Tips, Template & Resources
Is ADHD Considered a Disability in the UK?
Hidden Harm: The Alarming Link Between Disability and Domestic Abuse
Featured offers
10% off over £25 - delivery or click & collect - for orders up to 27th Sept
Code not working? Let us know. Max discount £12. See terms for excluded products.
20% off full price items for Nike members
To use this offer, you must be a Nike member. Exclusions apply.
