Shining a light on Hidden Disability - Nicks’ Story
“I might need a little more time, a little more patience, a little more understanding.”
[Glenray, Bathurst, NSW]
You wouldn’t know at a glance, but that’s the whole point really. Hidden disabilities don’t come with a visible sign or flashing light, they live quietly in the background of people’s lives. But they are there, shaping how someone moves through the world, how they think, feel and experience each day.
I recently sat down with Nick, who knows this too well. He agreed to share his story with me, in the hope to help others understand what it’s really like to live with a disability you can’t always see.
Nick shared he was diagnosed with autism when he was three years old and said “It affects what will be happening in my future.”
From the outside, things might seem fine, but reality is layered. There are days filled with uncertainty, moments of sensory overload and quiet struggles most people never notice.
‘It’s hard to connect to friends and family’ he said ‘they’re busy and married with kids.’ Also ‘Noises from machines and crowds can be hard’.
Nick expressed he can feel sad, not been allowed to do things because of his disability and highlighted people could be more respectful to him, and not make assumptions because of his disability.
Respect, fairness and understanding were themes that came up again and again in our conversation, which I believe is the most important and powerful message his story shared. That with understanding of an individual, compassion and empathy, we can make an impact on that persons’ daily life.
Nick spoke about being treated ‘like he can’t do something’, ‘like he isn’t capable’ this is frustrating and if people just took the time to get to know him and really listen, they’d see he is not so different. Nick just needs ‘things explained a little more sometimes’. and that he CAN learn & ‘develop skills and that he wants to be treated fairly and equally’. Support, Nick explained, doesn’t always mean big gestures. Sometimes, it’s just someone listening. Sometimes, it’s clear communication and patience.
The biggest impact in Nick’s life is his family, Nick explained - ‘Family makes a difference, listening to me with open communication and taking the time to explain things to me.’
When I asked how he wanted others to treat him, his answer was simple and powerful.
‘With respect! Understanding my feelings and treat me the same regardless of my disability.’
As we wrapped up our conversation, I asked whether he felt people were becoming more aware of hidden disabilities. “Yes, people are becoming more open and understanding. No matter your age, gender, or appearance, more people are learning to see beyond what’s on the surface.” said Nick
For us at Glenray that’s what the Sunflower initiative is all about, giving people the quiet strength to say “I might need a little more time, a little more patience, a little more understanding.”
We are grateful to Nick for sharing his story and the takeaway is you might not see it, but it doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Because not all disabilities are visible. But everyone deserves to be seen!
For further information or to pick up a lanyard email info@glenray.com.au or visit Glenray Head Office, 225 Howick St Bathurst.
