The sunflower as a symbol of invisible disabilities – the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Last updated: 6 May 2026
Some disabilities, illnesses or chronic conditions are not immediately apparent to others. For this reason, some people find it difficult to understand or believe that someone with an ‘invisible’ disability actually needs support. Some even question whether you have a disability at all, simply because you ‘don’t look as though you have a disability’.
That is why Hidden Disabilities Sunflower launched the Sunflower – to promote inclusion, acceptance and understanding.
What does the international symbol of the sunflower mean?
The globally recognised symbol – a yellow sunflower on a green background – represents invisible disabilities and indicates that those affected may need extra support or more time.
What are invisible disabilities?
Invisible or hidden impairments may be chronic conditions or disabilities that are not immediately apparent from the outside. These include, for example:
- Parkinson’s disease, ADHD, autism
- Cognitive impairments such as dyslexia, dementia or learning difficulties
- Mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders or depression
- Speech and visual impairments
- Hearing impairments such as hearing loss
- Chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes or chronic pain
How can wearing the Sunflower symbol help you?
- You or your companion can use the Sunflower symbol to indicate that you need extra help.
- People around you may ask how they can help.
Wo erhalte ich das Sunflower-Schlüsselband?
If those affected do not yet have a Sunflower lanyard, they can collect one free of charge and without having to provide proof of eligibility from the following locations:
- Munich Tourist Information at City Hall on Marienplatz
- Munich City Information at City Hall on Marienplatz
We are proud to support the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme. Our staff are trained to recognise the symbol and will ask how they can support you if necessary.
Further information about the Sunflower and the Sunflower lanyards is available at:
Website: Hidden disabilities