Unseen Disability: Autism

Just because we can’t see a disability, doesn’t mean it’s not there. As not every disability is visible, at CLIA Care, we encourage people to remember to have patience in daily life. There are many adults we support with whom it’s not obvious they experience the world differently. 

For example, more than 700,000 adults are diagnosed with having ASD in the UK (that’s approximately 1 in 100 people). And, as the name suggests, Autism Spectrum Disorder is something that manifests in a variety of possible ways. One person might struggle to express emotions; another might have ritualistic behaviour patterns. People with autism can have difficulty processing information or understanding what certain facial expressions mean*. A result of this can lead to confusion or frustration.

Orpington Train Station support the ‘Not Every Disability is Visible’ campaign, 2019.

Additionally, ’sensory overload’ is a heightened sensation that someone on the autistic spectrum may experience from loud noises, bright lights or strong smells. As a result of this a shut down – physical or emotional – can occur.

It’s a sad fact that only 1 in 6 people in the UK on the ASD spectrum have full-time jobs. It’s important that we educate ourselves in all these unseen disabilities so that we can recognise and support those whom they effect.

‘What is Autism’ - The National Autistic Society https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lk4qs8jGN4U