Page 5 - Inclusion Etiquette Booklet: January 2018
P. 5
Hidden Disabilities
“I look ‘ok’ on the outside. No one knows what I go through daily.”
Most disabling conditions are not readily apparent. For example,
you may never know that a coworker is struggling with chronic
pain, depression, diabetes, anxiety, etc. unless they disclose their
condition.
People with invisible disabilities strive to maintain a persona
of professionalism even when they may be experiencing pain
or discomfort. They may avoid disclosing their disability and
requesting accommodation for fear of being perceived negatively
by their employer and coworkers.
It’s important to remember that people with invisible disabilities
are at a disadvantage that is balanced by their accommodations.
These adjustments are a necessity, not a privilege, to enable the
employee to fulfill the requirements of their job. Your ARS Business
Engagement Representative can assist you with this.
More information on specific hidden disabilities and suggested
accommodations can be found at https://askjan.org/media/atoz.htm.
Sources:
2017 Minnesota State CareerWise Education, https://goo.gl/oU5LaV
Job Accommodation Network, https://askjan.org/media/atoz.htm.
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