Mental health in the workplace

[Lui]

Just wondering, how do people handle mental health issues with getting a job?

I have anxiety, depression, inattentive ADHD. 

Should i tell a new employer about these issues?

At what stage should I tell them?

What if they ask?

[Banksy92]

Hi Lui,

This is entirely up to you and what makes you the most comfortable. I don't see any reason why you would have to tell them, unless you feel it would be helpful to disclose to explore an arrangement that will better suit you. 

Personally, I have kept my mental health issues to myself in the past because I was worried it might reflect badly on me - but this is how stigmas perpetuate! So if you want to share it, there is nothing wrong with that either.

is there a particular reason you think it might be relevant to share with an employer?

[Lui]

I worry that if I don't, they will find out. And i think I may need some support in a job anyway

Which brings me to another question. What sort of support can employers give?

[blues23]

You don’t specifically have to tell your employer anything, if it’s not going to effect your role it’s really none of their business, if u can manage it outside of work. They can make reasonable adjustments to ur role such as time off, less hours worked ( u won’t get payed for these if u reduce ur hours unless u go on work cover ) u can also request your hours of work day 9-5 for example or u can request additional support such as a counseling at ur work but it’s usually only work place issues they address . 

[Lui]

I worry that it might effect my role. Anxiety is difficult

I guess if I start with part-time, it might be better

[Petal22]

Hi Lui,

This is totally up to you whether you tell your employer about your mental health conditions.

Maybe if you where accepted for a position and start working at a workplace if your feeling overwhelmed you could then disclose your mental health conditions with your employer.

Some companies would be obliging to help you and show understanding.

[blues23]

Just remember they have to give you reasonable adjustment to your role so yes if you want part time then they can’t refuse due to your mental health . But it’s totally up to you what you disclose at work . If you are not comfortable telling them and it’s not affecting you or your role then u are under no obligation whatsoever to tell them anything. 

[Lui]

So you think don't tell them, but say later, if needed?

[Lui]

I guess i don't know what the laws are regarding this stuff. if i don't disclose, will i not get help later?

I don't know what the law says

[Petal22]

It’s totally your decision 😊

But it’s just an option.