Our Positive Behaviour Support Manager, Tema, shares her insights and experiences with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, highlighting its impact on her daily life and its broader significance.
In today's fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overlooked or misunderstood, especially when dealing with an invisible disability.
The Hidden Disabilities (HD) Sunflower Program has been a beacon of support and understanding for people like myself, making a significant difference in our daily lives.
I still can’t remember exactly how I stumbled upon the Sunflower Program a year ago (it was probably whilst researching for some
community participation-specific strategies under positive behaviour support, to be quite honest!), but I am so glad to have found out about it when I did!
Haven’t heard much about the Program or are not sure what it means for us disabled folx? Well, let me tell you a bit about it!
Originally based in the UK, the HD Sunflower Program has made its way to Australia and New Zealand to provide a simple yet
powerful way for people with hidden disabilities to discreetly signal their need for extra support or understanding. By wearing a sunflower lanyard, wristband, or pin, people can quickly and subtly indicate that they have an invisible condition, such as autism, chronic pain, mental illness, and/or so many more presentations.
Having had to travel interstate a lot in the past year, my Sunflower lanyard and pin have become a staple in my handbag, as I have
been identified to be neurodivergent, have sensory processing needs, experience migraines far too frequently, and have a history of complex PTSD. Bit of a chaotic cocktail if you ask me, but these are all invisible disabilities within my profile! Coming from a cultural
background, I have also had a big shift in my perspective around having a disability since coming to Australia and while the old me would have felt a sense of shame and worthlessness with these identifications, thankfully, the present me is proud to know where I have strengths and where I have struggles, to accordingly access the services and supports I need to work through them all!
The beauty about the Sunflower Program is that it’s making some (much-needed) noise by challenging the (quickly-becoming-outdated) view around expectations of how we are meant to behave and function in a ‘neurotypical’ society. It squashes the view that just because we are disabled, we cannot be approached or dealt with in a community setting because it’s “too hard”.
What it does so beautifully instead, is that it gives disabled folx a voice and a space to be acknowledged and accepted for who we are. This is evidenced by a noticeable increase in understanding and patience from others. Wearing the sunflower lanyard made a subtle yet significant statement, particularly in public and sunflower-friendly places like airports (I see you, Adelaide Airport), shopping centres (hello Westfield), and even at work! People seemed more willing to offer assistance or simply be patient when I needed extra time. If you don’t want to wait for an online order, you can also pick up a free lanyard at your local council (e.g. Tea Tree Gully), a free waterproof wristband at WaterWorld, or at the
airport between 9am - 5pm at the Info Counter.
The Program has also boosted my confidence and independence, where I feel more supported and secure to access busy environments within the community. Before, I often hesitated to venture out alone, fearing that my invisible disability would lead to uncomfortable situations or misunderstandings. The sunflower symbol, however, has given me the confidence to step out more freely, knowing that help and understanding is just a signal away. I also feel incredibly empowered to handle everyday tasks and activities - from grocery shopping to attending social events. The sense of independence I've gained has been invaluable.
Beyond personal benefits, the Sunflower Program has also contributed to a broader awareness of invisible disabilities. Friends, family, and even strangers have approached me to learn more about the lanyard and what it signifies. These conversations have opened up opportunities to educate others about the challenges faced by people with hidden disabilities and the importance of empathy and support.
By supporting the Sunflower Program, I feel like it has supported me in ways that have enhanced my experiences of accessing the community more successfully. The Program does wonders in fostering a more inclusive society where everyone’s needs are recognised and respected in its highest form.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program has been revolutionary in offering me the support and understanding I needed to navigate the world with greater ease and confidence. If you or someone you know is living with an invisible disability, I highly recommend exploring this program. It is a small but powerful step that can lead to significant positive changes, making our world a kinder and more inclusive place for everyone. So, embrace the sunflower and let it shine a light on the hidden challenges we face. Together, we can all make a difference in making disabled folx’s lives easier in the community, by acknowledging their strengths and areas of needs in a nurturing and empathetic manner.