We see what others cannot!
why do we have a bursary program (commencing spring 2026)
Invisible Disabilities and the Challenges of Post-Secondary Education: A Hidden Struggle
It’s a reality that 1 in 4 people live with an invisible disorder, many of which have a significant impact on their ability to pursue education, employment, and other life goals. Invisible disabilities, ranging from mental health conditions to chronic pain and learning disabilities, can create substantial barriers, especially when it comes to post-secondary education. For many youth, these challenges can make navigating the transition from high school to higher education difficult—often without others even knowing they’re struggling.
Disability Prevalence Among Youth
Among young people aged 15 to 24, the most common disabilities are:
- Mental health-related disabilities: 13.6%
- Learning disabilities: 9.2%
- Pain-related disabilities: 6.7%
The prevalence of mental health disorders among youth has been steadily rising. Between 2017 and 2022, mental health-related disabilities among youth increased by 6 percentage points. This increase was especially pronounced among young women, where the rate rose by 9 percentage points over the same period. These trends reflect a growing crisis in youth mental health, which has been further exacerbated by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Invisible Impact of Mental Health on Education
Mental health-related disabilities—such as anxiety, depression, and stress disorders—are often invisible. This means that they’re not immediately obvious to teachers, peers, or even family members. Yet they can significantly affect a young person’s ability to succeed in a post-secondary setting. The pressure of balancing coursework, social expectations, and future career plans can be overwhelming for many students, especially those already struggling with mental health challenges.
Youth with invisible disabilities often face unique difficulties when trying to access higher education, particularly in environments that are not equipped to provide the support they need. Unlike more visible disabilities, mental health struggles are frequently misunderstood, leading to feelings of isolation and increased stress. In some cases, students may not even feel comfortable disclosing their condition for fear of stigma or discrimination.
The Employment and Education Gap for Youth with Disabilities
Youth with disabilities, particularly those with invisible disorders, are less likely to be employed or enrolled in school compared to their peers without disabilities:
- Employment: Only 41.8% of youth with disabilities are employed, compared to 50.5% of youth without disabilities.
- Unemployment: 15.5% of youth with disabilities are unemployed, compared to 11.1% of youth without disabilities.
- Not in the Labor Force: 42.7% of youth with disabilities are not in the labor force, compared to 38.4% of youth without disabilities.
- School Attendance: 65.1% of youth with disabilities are enrolled in school, compared to 69.7% of youth without disabilities.
These disparities are particularly significant for students with invisible disabilities who are often underrepresented in post-secondary education. While some students with visible disabilities may have access to accommodations and support, those with mental health or learning disabilities may find it harder to advocate for themselves or even recognize that they need help.
The Invisible Barriers to Post-Secondary Education
Invisible disabilities can create a number of barriers for students hoping to attend and succeed in post-secondary education. Some of the most common challenges include:
- Lack of Support: Many post-secondary institutions are not equipped with the resources necessary to support students with invisible disabilities. Mental health support may be limited, and learning accommodations may not always be tailored to the specific needs of students with invisible disabilities.
- Stigma and Misunderstanding: Since invisible disabilities are not immediately visible, students may be hesitant to disclose their condition, fearing judgment or a lack of understanding. This can lead to feelings of isolation and difficulty accessing accommodations that could make a significant difference in their educational experience.
- Academic Challenges: Students with learning disabilities or mental health conditions may struggle with coursework, concentration, or deadlines. Without proper support, these challenges can lead to lower academic performance, reduced retention rates, and an increased likelihood of dropping out.
- Financial Stress: Students with invisible disabilities may also face additional financial stress, either from needing more flexible work hours or additional healthcare costs for treatment. This financial strain can exacerbate existing challenges and create an additional barrier to completing their education.
how computers can enhance learning for invisible disorders
Accessibility Features
Assistive Technology Integration
Assistive Technology Integration
Modern computers come equipped with built-in accessibility options such as screen readers, voice recognition, and magnification tools, making them easier to use for students with visual impairments, learning disabilities, or mobility challenges. These features enable students to interact with their studies in a way that’s comfortable for them.
Assistive Technology Integration
Assistive Technology Integration
Assistive Technology Integration
The new computers will support a wide range of assistive software, including text-to-speech programs, speech-to-text software, and mind-mapping tools. These technologies can help students with learning disabilities like dyslexia or ADHD by providing alternative ways to engage with their coursework, reducing cognitive load and improving focus.
Customizable Settings
Assistive Technology Integration
Cloud-Based Learning Tools
Students can adjust the computer’s settings to match their needs, whether it’s adjusting the contrast for better visibility, reducing blue light to minimize eye strain, or customizing keyboard shortcuts for easier navigation. These personalized adjustments help students manage fatigue, stress, and sensory overload, which are often experienced by individuals with invisible disorders.
Cloud-Based Learning Tools
Cloud-Based Learning Tools
Cloud-Based Learning Tools
With cloud-based programs and applications, students can easily store, access, and share their work from anywhere, reducing stress around managing deadlines or keeping track of physical materials. This flexibility can be a game-changer for students with mental health or chronic pain conditions who may need to work from home or during non-traditional hours.
Improved Collaboration
Cloud-Based Learning Tools
Improved Collaboration
Collaborative tools like video conferencing, chat apps, and shared workspaces on these computers can help students stay connected with peers and instructors, even when face-to-face interaction is challenging due to mental health struggles or other invisible disabilities. This ensures that students have access to support and can participate fully in group projects or discussions.
Empowering Education Through Technology
How New Computers Can Help Students with Invisible Disorders
The new computers provided through the Change Coalition’s Bursary Program are designed to support the unique needs of students with invisible disabilities. Here are some key features that make these computers ideal for enhancing learning and productivity:
A Step Toward Inclusivity
Supporting Change Coalition Means Supporting Your Community
By providing these advanced computers to students with invisible disabilities, the Change Coalition is not only offering the tools necessary for academic success but also fostering a more inclusive and equitable learning environment. We believe that every student, regardless of their disability, should have access to the technology that can help them reach their full potential.
Through your support, we can make a difference in the lives of students who may otherwise struggle to keep up in traditional learning settings. Together, we can provide them with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed.
Sponsor a student
Students must be under the age of 21 and have a diagnosed invisible disability.