Invisible Disabilities as a Barrier to Resilience

Course overview

Trainer/Presenter: Joanie Calem, Inclusion Advocate; First Do No Harm Many individuals have invisible disabilities that adversely affect their comfort level for participation in typical social interactions. Current research states that nearly 1 in 2 individuals in the US (45 %) have experienced at least one ACE (Adverse Childhood Experience), 1 in 5 (20%) of children have a mental illness, 1 in 6 (16%) have SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder), 1 in 25 (4%) have PTSD and 1 in 36 (2.7%) have ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). Though these conditions have disparate roots, they all contribute to sensory discomfort that affects individuals' ability to comfortably function in public spaces, learning environments, and job sites. The daily stress of trying to maneuver our constantly changing social norms makes achieving resilience challenging. This session is applicable for educators, administrators and family members who are striving to help their students/children/family members learn to strategize and manage the effects of Sensory Processing Disorder, and how it impacts negotiating school and other public spaces. The presentation explores the details of SPD and ACES and how they interact to affect one's daily life. The session includes resource material and strategies for participants to bring back to their schools, classrooms and community organizations, to help both the individuals with SPD identify sensory stressors, and to help the support team build a truly workable strategy of support and inclusion for those suffering from sensory overload.