Mental illness, as described by the Mayo Clinic, refers to a wide range of mental health conditions, disorders that affect mood, thinking and behaviour.
Mental illness may include depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, eating disorders and addictive behaviours.
Mental health issues affect about one in five individuals in the U.S. and Canada. Even with that alarming statistic many individuals affected by mental illness choose to suffer in silence due to the stigma they may face. In recent years there has been more relevant and constant media attention toward mental illness and though we are seeing some improvements, stigma persists.
The unemployment rate among people who have a mental illness is 70% to 90%.
This again is an overwhelming statistic due to the changes we have seen within our society over the past few years. We are slowly heading in the right direction, which means actively recruiting and hiring those with mental illness and better understanding the direct affect it has on one’s life and working environment. Celebrities like Catherine Zeta Jones have stepped forward, sharing their battles with different mental conditions such as bipolar disorder, anorexia and depression. By doing so, these celebrities not only bring forth awareness, they also make way for a more psychological understanding and sense of belonging to those who have felt alone and lost for far too long.
According to strategy.mentalhealthcommisions.ca, mental illness will cost Ottawa an estimated $50 billion. It cost Washington $57.5 billion in 2006 and that figure has likely doubled since, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. For many, employment is a positive experience and may come with a wide range of benefits, including reducing cost to the economy. These benefits include high self esteem and confidence, problem solving skills, reduced stress levels and a more structured routine. Along with employment also comes some guidelines when dealing with mental health. The need for frequent breaks, drinks like water available at the work station, an open-door communication policy and flexible working hours if possible.
So, if you have a mental illness, should you disclose it to your employer? Only you can decide whether or not to let your employer know about your mental illness. Disclosing such information to your employer is the only way to receive any special accommodations you may need. But because of certain stigmas around the issue, you may be opening yourself to discrimination. There are a few things to consider before letting your employer in on your illness.
The first thing to consider is whether or not you may need a third party present when speaking with your employer. This will provide a fair basis for anything being discussed and a witness to any negotiations that are needed. Third parties may include human resources, union representatives, therapists or mental health agency representatives.
Second, weigh the pros and cons about disclosing to your employer. Do you need accommodations? Do you feel it will be better if you are both on the same page?
As well, at this time ask your employer to go over the sick days policy with you in case you may ever need time off for reasons relating to the nature of your illness.
Third, do some research on whether or not your company or workplace has a positive attitude toward hiring employees with a mental illness or if they have ever hired in the past. This can include any past accommodations made for another employee or contacting your human resources department.
It is important to note that you do not need to disclose information at the time of being hired and may choose to disclose at any time during your employment.
Many will choose not to disclose personal information to their employer. In some cases, non-disclosure may lead to more anxiety issues, job loss or medical issues such as high blood pressure due to the stress it may provide. But if special tools, accessibility or accommodations of any kind are needed, it would be best to inform your employer as soon as you are ready.
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