Chronic Illness and Hidden Disability: What You Can’t See Still Matters
For many disabled folks, it can be difficult to have their pain, issues, and problems fully understood and taken seriously by able-bodied folks – from politicians to doctors, to family and friends.
Not all disabilities are visible, though—and for people living with chronic illnesses or chronic pain, that invisibility can be both a burden and a barrier. Hidden disabilities, like autoimmune disorders, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, Long COVID, POTS, MCAS, and persistent mental health conditions, among others, often go unnoticed by others but have a deep, daily impact on those who live with them.
Because these conditions aren’t immediately apparent, people with chronic illness often face skepticism, dismissal, or pressure to "push through" pain and fatigue. They may be accused of exaggerating, told they “don’t look disabled,” or struggle to access accommodations that they’re legally entitled to. This invisibility adds an additional emotional toll to an already exhausting experience.
But chronic illness is real and a real disability. It deserves recognition, respect, and support.
Supporting people with hidden disabilities means:
Believing people when they describe their experience —even if you can’t see it.
Understanding that rest, mobility aids, and access needs are valid, even if they fluctuate.
Making space for flexibility in needs and capacity, without judgment or shame.
Depersonalizing fluctuations in social engagement and communication.
Being understanding if they need to change, pivot, or cancel plans – they aren’t being flaky, and chances are they are bummed to have to miss out on something.
Asking if there is anything you can do to support them – however big or small it may be, and being a safe person to receive help from. Most people with chronic illnesses and hidden disabilities are not used to asking for as much help as they need.
Giving them grace if they seem agitated or irritated – pain can affect your demeanor, and chances are that pain is playing a factor in their mood. Being patient with them and asking if they need any support in managing their pain can be great ways to show support.
Masking – even if you aren’t still COVID-ing, keeping your immunocompromised friends safe and as healthy as possible is the single best way to support them. Offering to wear an N95 or KN95 around them is a wonderful way to show solidarity and support and care for their safety.
Disability isn’t always something obvious or constant. It doesn’t need to “look a certain way” to be legitimate or validated. When we broaden our understanding of disability to include the invisible, we create a more compassionate and inclusive world—one where people don’t have to prove they’re struggling to be worthy of care.