Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
03 December 2024 | 17:45 CAT

Raising awareness about invisible disabilities and chronic illnesses in the workplace: Advocating for empathy, inclusion, and understanding this International Day for Persons with Disabilities.

A deeper understanding of invisible disabilities and chronic illnesses in professional spaces is crucial, as emphasized by Dr. Armand Bam, Head of Social Impact at Stellenbosch Business School. Speaking on International Day for Persons with Disabilities in an interview on Radio Islam International, Dr. Bam urged workplaces to foster empathy and meaningful inclusion for individuals living with unseen conditions.

“Invisible disabilities, such as lupus or chronic mental health conditions, often subject individuals to stereotypes questioning their competence and reliability,” Dr. Bam explained. “This stigma forces many to conceal their struggles, leading to professional isolation.”

Lupus, an autoimmune disease affecting over 3.4 million people globally, exemplifies these challenges. Dr. Bam highlighted that African women are disproportionately affected, often facing severe episodic symptoms that impact their economic and social mobility. “One case I encountered involved an individual who spent 309 days in ICU, showcasing the profound toll such illnesses can take,” he said.

Despite existing international frameworks like the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, implementation gaps remain. In South Africa, legislation advocates for equality, yet practical workplace accommodations for chronic illnesses are often inadequate. “Too frequently, inclusion efforts become mere tick-box exercises,” Dr. Bam noted.

Chronic illnesses also present unique dilemmas around disclosure. While openness can help employers plan accommodations, fear of discrimination often silences employees. Dr. Bam pointed out that disclosures, particularly during reference checks, perpetuating stigma and limiting career prospects, can backfire.

Support groups play a vital role in bridging these gaps. However, many, especially those for lupus, remain underfunded and self-sustained. “Businesses should step up and support these groups, recognizing the wider societal benefit,” Dr. Bam urged.

To create lasting change, Dr. Bam advocates for embedding inclusivity into workplace cultures, emphasizing empathy over appearances. “At any stage in life, we could join this population. Awareness and compassion are not just acts of kindness but necessities for a fair and functional society.”

This International Day for Persons with Disabilities reminds us that, visible or not, every condition deserves understanding, and every individual deserves dignity.

You can listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Dr. Armand Bam, Head of Social Impact at Stellenbosch Business School, here.