When we think of disabilities, we often think primarily of visible disabilities. However, many people live with disabilities that are not immediately observable when looking at that person. These are known as invisible disabilities. Invisible disabilities can be challenging to navigate from an accommodations perspective, and people with invisible disabilities often face a different kind of discrimination based upon people’s assumptions of what someone can and cannot do.
At REES, we understand the unique barriers that may be prevalent for those with invisible disabilities. That is why our employment services are available to anyone with an invisible disability, including but not limited to:
- Blind or Low Vision
- Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Back Injuries
- Colitis
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Long Covid
- Chronic Migraines
- Fibromyalgia
- HIV/AIDS
- Cerebral Palsy
- Chron’s Disease
- Chronic Allergies
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Diabetes
- Hepatitis
- Amputation
- Arthritis
- Epilepsy
- Multiple Chemical Sensitivities
- And more…
At REES, we are committed to assisting our clients to develop an accommodation plan for the workplace, as well as a solid plan as to how to communicate those accommodations to an employer.
One barrier that may arise with one or many of the listed invisible disabilities is the unpredictability of symptoms. Many people with invisible disabilities experience symptoms that can vary widely from day to day or even hour to hour. This can make it difficult to plan for work or make commitments, as it may be difficult to predict when symptoms may flare up or worsen.
Despite challenge, people with invisible disabilities can and do succeed in the workplace. With the right accommodations and support, many people with invisible disabilities are able to transition into new jobs quite successfully. That’s where REES comes in – we provide a range of employment services that are tailored to each individual’s needs and goals.
Our workshops, counseling, job coaching, and job matching services are designed to help people with invisible disabilities navigate the job search process and find meaningful employment. We work closely with each client to identify their strengths and abilities, as well as any barriers or limitations they may face. From there, we develop a customized plan that includes accommodations and support to help them succeed on the job.
Examples of accommodations we might recommend include flexible scheduling, modified workstations, assistive technology, and job coaching or mentoring. We also provide training and education to employers regarding accommodating employees with invisible disabilities and tips to creating an inclusive workplace culture.
At REES, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve their full potential in the workplace. If you or someone you know is living with an invisible disability and could benefit from our services, please be in touch.
