Invisible health conditions 15 December 2018 MedicAlert members come from all walks of life, but one common experience for many is living with an invisible condition. A recent government survey revealed 1 in 5 people in the UK reported a disability - That's 13.9 million people. Your first thought may be disbelief, as disability is often associated with a visual ailment, a wheelchair for example, however, disability is defined as any chronic illness or impairment that causes difficulty on a daily basis. Still seems like a high figure? When you consider the stigma often attached to any physical or mental impairment in the workplace or amongst friends, it's really not surprising that people choose to suffer in silence. With so many fearful of being labelled a liability or inferior, it's even more important for us all to learn how to talk about the elephant in the room. Not only do sufferers have to put up with challenging, often painful, and sometimes debilitating conditions every day, but on top of that, there is also a social struggle. You may have to face scepticism from friends, family, and co-workers, as well as strangers who don't fully understand the symptoms of a condition. How to help someone with an invisible health condition Never say 'But you don't look sick'or 'it's all in your head' Be supportive, reassuring and listen Don't let it affect your opinion of someone Try to learn more about their disease and how to help make their life easier Help to spread awareness of diseases, to help improve the acceptance of these diseases Make sure they are involved and don't get left out because of their condition Remember, "comparison is the thief of joy" Statistic gathered from: Government survey 2016/17 What to do if you have an invisible illness Article Categories Health and Wellbeing
