disabilities

Becoming Aware of the Different Types of Disabilities Around Us

Introduction

A disability is generally defined as an impairment or limitation that diminishes an individual’s capabilities and reduces their ability to carry out activities in the same way as non-disabled people. In one way or another, people with disabilities need assistance to carry out certain actions in their daily lives. However, it is not always easy to recognize a disabled person immediately. While some disabilities are immediately obvious, others require a great deal of observation before being detected.

Physical Disabilities Physical disabilities affect all or part of the body and can often be easily visible. Examples include:

  • Motor disabilities: These include conditions like quadriplegia and paresis that affect the limbs, feet, joints, and arms. Individuals with these disabilities might use wheelchairs or crutches.
  • Visual disabilities: Conditions such as myopia and hypermetropia affect eyesight, and individuals often wear medical glasses.
  • Dermatological disabilities: Albinism is an example of a skin condition that is immediately noticeable.

However, some physical disabilities are not easily identified. For example:

  • Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease: This condition affects the nerves in the muscles, and its symptoms might not be obvious. Individuals might not realize they have a disability.

Mental Disabilities Mental disabilities affect an individual’s cognitive abilities and might not be immediately apparent. Examples include:

  • Bipolar disorder: Marked by exaggerated mood swings.
  • Schizophrenia: A mental condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.

Mentally disabled individuals might not be easily recognizable, but they require assistance to navigate their environment. Unfortunately, these individuals are often misunderstood by society because their disabilities are not instantly recognizable.

Conclusion Disability is not always overtly visible. Many people around us live with disabilities that are not always obvious but significantly impact their lives or how they react to situations. These individuals need all the help they can get to make their lives easier. Before reacting negatively to someone who has taken your seat in a public place or who has moved ahead in a queue, consider whether they might have a hidden disability that requires your tolerance and understanding.

Arthur Bodi

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