International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is celebrated on 3rd December every year. The theme for 2020’s IDPD is “NOT ALL DISABILITIES ARE VISIBLE”.
Here are some examples of disabilities that are not visible:
- Mental illness
- Chronic pain or fatigues
- Sight or hearing impairments
- Diabetes
- Learning differences
- Brain injuries
According to the WHO World Report on Disability, 15 per cent of the world’s population, or more than 1 billion people, are living with disability. Of this number, it’s estimated 450 million are living
with a mental or neurological condition— and two-thirds of these people will not seek professional medical help, largely due to stigma, discrimination and neglect.
EN celebrated IDPD to remember the importance of removing barriers for all people with disability , both visible and invisible.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, isolation, disconnect, disrupted routines and diminished services have greatly impacted the lives and mental well-being of people with disabilities right around the world.
Spreading awareness of invisible disabilities and supporting people with these disabilities is crucial as the world continues to fight against the virus.
