Non-Apparent / Hidden Disabilities Support Group

The group is for people with hidden, invisible, or nonapparent disabilities, even dynamic disabilities (fluctuating, episodic, sometimes called “not always” disabilities). These are physical, mental, or neurological conditions not obvious from a person’s appearance. Examples include chronic pain, diabetes, learning differences like dyslexia, autism, mental health conditions like depression, and neurological conditions like migraine, vertigo, and multiple chemical sensitivity.

People with hidden disabilities are often overlooked, trivialized, marginalized, isolated, and discriminated against, even at times by people with apparent, sometimes referred to as “real”, disabilities. Disability status is more often denied and support is delayed. Accommodations may be considered unnecessary and withheld. People are often faced with a “you look fine” attitude of skepticism and accusations of faking.

Come share compassion with peers.

Meets every 4th Monday of the month at 4:00pm.

First group meets on April 27.

The support groups will meet in-person at Progress Center in Forest Park and over Zoom (hybrid).

For more information, directions to our office or the Zoom link, call Demetra at Progress Center at 708-209-1500 ext. 118 or email dkaras@progresscil.org.