Invisible disabilities and health among U.S. postsecondary students.

Abstract

Objective: The current study compares the health behaviors and outcomes of students with three types of invisible disabilities-autism, ADHD or learning disabilities, and mental health conditions-to neurotypical students. Gender differences are also examined. Participants: Undergraduate college students (n = 2,822) at ten postsecondary institutions in Indiana. Methods: Students completed an online survey in spring 2021. Differences in health behaviors and outcomes based on disability status were estimated using linear and logistic regression models. Results: College students with invisible disabilities reported worse health than neurotypical students across a range of health behaviors and outcomes, for both physical and mental health. Students with mental health conditions reported worse health most consistently. There were few gender differences. Conclusions: Health-related programming targeted to students with invisible disabilities has received little attention in research on college student health. As this population grows, we recommend that institutions develop programs to address their specific health-related challenges and needs.