Invisible Disabilities

via Facebook

By Ann Morrissey Andrew
June 9, 2014

I don't usually use Facebook as a forum to vent, but this topic is worth conversation because it hit home, hard, today.

The topic is Invisible Disabilities. Invisible disabilities are disabilities that are not immediately apparent. It could be hearing loss, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, Learning Disabilities as well as a long list of others.

I have a vested interest, and years of practical experience, in Language-based Learning Disabilities, which, as the name implies, have to do with difficulty with expression. Many people with Dyslexia specifically, have difficulty finding the "right" word or often go off on tangents that are, on a good day, difficult to follow. This naturally causes difficulty in the classroom, but in social situations as well.

I also know more than I wish to know about ADD. These children often approach other children with a naive openness - they are so eager to please and participate. Unfortunately, very often this is not well received by peers.

How do you comfort a child that can't understand why he is not accepted? How can I ever ask my child to change? I don't want him to. I love him just as he is...

In my perfect world, we would all be kind to one another. Accept our differences. Find the good in everyone.

Friends, please teach acceptance for all people with disabilities - not just the most obvious ones.

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The mother of three boys, Ann Morrissey Andrew co-chairs the Rockport, MA Parents Advisory Committee (SEPAC), which provides information to parents and the broader community on Special Education issues and services. A trained educational advocate, she works towards increased understanding, respect and support of all children with special needs. She has a particular interest in dyslexia.