“Hidden Disabilities Sunflower”

The University of Zurich continually strives to ensure inclusion and accessible participation for all of its students and staff with disabilities and chronic illnesses. UZH aims to increase the awareness of these topics among its staff and students as well as throughout the organization itself. As part of its efforts, UZH joined the global network “Hidden Disabilities Sunflower” (referred to as “Sunflower” below) in 2026.
 “Hidden Disabilities Sunflower” website

By taking this step, UZH supports its students and staff with invisible disabilities as they navigate their everyday life at the university – regardless of whether they have formally disclosed their disabilities. In addition to UZH, other international universities and institutions have also joined the Sunflower network.

Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, hearing aids and prosthetics can indicate that an individual has a disability. However, only about 10 percent of all disabilities are visible. The large majority of disabilities and chronic illnesses – as well as their related needs and the support they require – are often not immediately apparent to others. Examples of hidden disabilities and chronic illnesses include multiple sclerosis, long Covid, cancer, AD(H)D, autism spectrum disorders and mental health disorders (e.g. anxiety disorders and depression).

“Sunflower” offers both green “wearer” products and white “ally/supporter” products, most of which are keychains (lanyards) or armbands. All of the products have sunflower designs on them.

Individuals using a “wearer” product can discretely communicate to those around them that they have an invisible disability or chronic illness and may therefore need extra time, support or understanding.

People wearing an “ally/supporter” product signal a willingness to help and a certain level of awareness. To confirm they have awareness, “allies/supporters” must watch a training video before they receive an “ally/supporter” product. This video contains information about the “Sunflower” symbol, hidden disabilities and how to interact effectively with those affected.

• “Sunflower” website
• “Sunflower's” non-visible disabilities index
• Podcast “The Sunflower Conversations”

UZH students and staff can show their UZH ID card to get a free Sunflower product. The university does not document who requests a product.

Sunflower products can be obtained at the following UZH locations:

• Office for Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Stampfenbachstr. 73, 8006 Zurich
• Disability Office, Schönberggasse 15, 8001 Zürich
• Psychological Counseling Services UZH/ETH, Plattenstrasse 28, 8032 Zürich
• Welcome Desk at UZH main building, Rämistrasse 71, 8006 Zürich

Q: What does it mean when I use a wearer product?

A: A “Sunflower” “wearer” product indicates that you would like others to know you have an invisible disability or chronic illness.

Q: What might happen when I use a “wearer” product?

A: You might experience that designated “Sunflower” “allies/supporters” or other UZH staff or students ask you if you need any help or support.

Q: Which invisible disabilities qualify me to receive a “wearer” product?

A: Every person with an invisible disability may receive and use a “wearer” product. There is no list of specific disabilities. A “wearer” product signals to others that an individual has an invisible disability and may need support.

Q: I already have a “Sunflower” product. Can I use it at UZH?

A: Yes. The “Sunflower” symbol carries the same meaning in all settings and organizations. Likewise, a “Sunflower” product provided by UZH may also be used outside of the university.

Q: Does using a “wearer” product officially disclose to the UZH that I have a disability?

A: No. The “Sunflower” symbol is a discreet, personal signal and is not recorded or documented in any of UZH’s official systems.

Q: Do I have to disclose my diagnosis?

A: No. It is up to you to decide if you want to disclose your invisible disability. You may indicate the needs you have on the back of your “wearer” product, which may be useful for those assisting you (e.g. if you are unresponsive).

Q: Can I use a “wearer” product to apply for reasonable adjustments?

A: No. Reasonable adjustments are granted when barriers to accessing UZH’s structures and services need to be removed. There are formal requirements for obtaining such measures (e.g. a medical certificate); please contact the Disability Office for more information.
Disability Office’s web page

Q: Do I have to wear a “Sunflower” product at all times?

A: No. You can decide when and where you wear a “Sunflower” product. For example, you can put it on only when you need help or are able to provide help.

Q: Where can I find more information about the topic of inclusion for individuals with disabilities at UZH?

• Statement from UZH’s president on equal opportunities for people with disabilities at the university
• UZH Accessible project that aims to improve the accessibility of UZH’s structures and services
• commUNIty web page
• EDI Office’s Inclusion web page
• Disability Office’s web page