New Research: Understanding Support Needs for Visible Differences
We are pleased to share the findings of our latest study on the self-reported support needs and preferences of adults with visible differences, recently published in the journal Body Image. This research was made possible with the help of many individuals and organizations who participated in and helped recruit for the survey back in 2022.
About the Study
The study, led by researchers at the Centre for Appearance Research (CAR) and supported by the VTCT Foundation, aimed to explore what types of support individuals with visible differences need and prefer, how they would like to access support, and the challenges they face in doing so.
Key Findings
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Widespread Need for Support
Participants expressed the need for both medical and psychosocial support.- 80.5% wanted more information about potential treatments.
- 61.3% wanted help accepting their appearance.
- 56.7% sought support for mental health and well-being.
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Preferred Sources of Support
The majority of respondents wanted help from healthcare professionals (89.3%), followed by peer support from others with similar experiences (61.3%), and charitable organizations (35.8%). -
How People Want to Access Support
A mix of digital and in-person support was preferred:- Online resources, such as websites (65.8%) and online support groups (47.6%), were the most popular.
- In-person counseling (45.8%) and support groups (37.5%) were also highly valued.
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Barriers to Support
Many respondents struggled to access the help they needed, often due to:- A lack of awareness and understanding among healthcare professionals.
- Financial barriers limiting access to private treatments.
- A lack of diversity and inclusivity in available support services.
Why This Matters
This study reinforces the need for more comprehensive, accessible, and individualized support services for people with visible differences. It highlights the importance of raising awareness among healthcare professionals, expanding psychosocial support services, and ensuring diverse and inclusive representation in support programs.
Next Steps
The findings from this research will be used to inform future support strategies and interventions, ensuring that individuals with visible differences have access to the care and assistance they need.
We extend our deepest thanks to everyone who participated in the survey and to those who continue to support our ongoing research. Your contributions are essential in shaping a more inclusive and supportive future.