Visibility of Disabilities and Career Opportunities: A Deep Dive

Is there a distinction in career opportunities between those with visible and those with invisible disabilities? This is a complex question, often influenced by societal perceptions, workplace accommodations, and individual efforts. In this article, we explore the nuances of this topic and delve into the realities faced by individuals with both visible and invisible disabilities.

The Role of Resources and Education

First and foremost, the answer to this question is multifaceted and highly dependent on how well the person with a disability utilizes the resources available to them. For instance, the author of this piece graduated with a degree in liberal arts and English. Despite having cerebral palsy and using a wheelchair, her journey to employment would likely have been significantly more challenging without the structural support of a college education. She emphasizes:

"I can honestly tell you that I would not be employed now if I didn’t go to college and worked for ten years teaching night school."

Similar to individuals with visible disabilities, those with invisible disabilities must also leverage educational and resource-based advantages to secure and maintain professional roles.

Workplace Support and Accommodations

People with visible disabilities are often perceived and treated as employees with special needs, which can limit their career opportunities or place them in less prominent roles. However, such accommodations can also provide a more stable and supported environment, which in turn may enhance their professional experience and job performance. Conversely, those with invisible disabilities often face a significant challenge in staying employed, as their struggles may not be immediately apparent or understood.

The disparity is compounded by the fact that hidden disabilities, such as mental illness or chronic illness, can be much harder to discern from an external perspective. Management and HR play a crucial role in both visibility and accommodation. When these departments are actively involved in supporting employees with hidden disabilities, the opportunities for better positions improve. However, in settings without such support, employees with invisible disabilities may find it difficult to remain in long-term roles, often being dismissed due to perceptions of inconsistency or incapability.

Spiritual and Mindfulness Practices

Ultimately, many believe that the biggest disability one can have is spiritual ignorance, or the belief that they are nothing more than a body, brain, and ego. The author suggests adopting a mindset of Infinite Pure Consciousness, which could lead to a better understanding of one's true nature and a path towards enlightenment. Here are some simple steps to achieve this:

Find a quiet place where you can meditate freely. Sit comfortably in a position that supports your body. Close your eyes and relax. Think the mantra “OM” and allow your thoughts and feelings to come and go. Return to the mantra whenever your mind wanders. Practice for 20 minutes, both morning and evening.

Much of the challenge lies not in the visibility of the disability itself, but in the level of understanding and empathy within the workplace. Those with visible disabilities tend to receive more understanding and support, whereas those with invisible disabilities may be viewed with less compassion, often leading to quicker dismissal from roles.

The author shares her personal experience as someone with an invisible illness, having had over 40 jobs due to her mental health not being immediately apparent. She emphasizes that career success is often influenced by job knowledge, training, and interpersonal relationships with colleagues rather than the visibility of the disability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the visibility of a disability does play a role in career opportunities, the most significant factor is often the availability and utilization of resources, as well as the level of workplace support and understanding. Both visible and invisible disabilities present unique challenges, but with the right mindset and resources, professionals can overcome these obstacles and thrive in their careers.