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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 invisible disabilities, many of which significantly impact their ability to pursue post-secondary education, employment, and other life goals. Invisible disabilities, which encompass mental health conditions, chronic pain, and learning disabilities, can create substantial barriers, particularly when it comes to higher education. For many youth, these challenges can complicate the transition from high school to post-secondary education, often without others even realizing they’re struggling.
Disability Prevalence Among Youth
Among young people aged 15 to 24, the most common disabilities include various invisible disabilities, with mental health-related disabilities at 13.6%, learning disabilities at 9.2%, and pain-related disabilities at 6.7%.
The prevalence of mental health disorders among youth has been steadily rising, particularly affecting those in post-secondary education. Between 2017 and 2022, mental health-related disabilities among youth increased by 6 percentage points, with young women experiencing a notable rise of 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 considered invisible disabilities. 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 post-secondary education. 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 disabilities, are less likely to be employed or enrolled in post-secondary education 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 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 might not always be tailored to the specific needs of these students. 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 significantly enhance 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 incurring extra healthcare costs for treatment. This financial strain can exacerbate existing challenges and create an additional barrier to completing their education.
Invisible disabilities can significantly impact students' experiences in post-secondary education. Understanding these challenges is essential for creating inclusive environments that support all learners.
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 invisible disabilities, learning disabilities, or mobility challenges. These features enable students to interact with their studies in a way that’s comfortable for them, particularly in the context of post-secondary education.
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 invisible disabilities, such as dyslexia or ADHD, in post-secondary education 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 modifying the contrast for better visibility, reducing blue light to minimize eye strain, or customizing keyboard shortcuts for easier navigation. These personalized adjustments are particularly beneficial for students with invisible disabilities in post-secondary education, as they help manage fatigue, stress, and sensory overload that often accompany these conditions.
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, which is particularly beneficial for those in post-secondary education managing invisible disabilities. This flexibility can significantly reduce stress around meeting deadlines or keeping track of physical materials, especially 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 in post-secondary education 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.
Bursary Program: Supporting Students with Invisible Disabilities
How New Computers Can Help Students with Invisible Disorders
The new computers provided through the Change Coalition’s Bursary Program are specifically designed to support the unique needs of students with invisible disabilities, particularly those pursuing post-secondary education. 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 in post-secondary education 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.