Disclosing a diagnosis of mental health issues/personality disorder to a prospective employer
I have had anxiety and depression for a number of years and a recent provisional diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder. Because I have had some bad experiences with managers/supervisors (the most recent being in the last year) who have known about my condition and have not been very understanding or accommodating and used them as ammunition against me, I am reluctant to disclose this information to a prospective employer. But, is it worth mentioning a provisional but not official diagnosis of a personality disorder and how it affects you to the person who could one day be your manager?
Anonymous
11/12/20 at 2:02PM UTC
I agree with others. Do not disclose to the employer and be cautious in who within the company you disclose this information to in the future. These things have a way of turning into gossip. If the disabilily comes into play in relationships with managers or colleagues, then you need to take more steps to manage the issue. If there are legitimate problems with the manager/colleague, it will still get blamed on you for your "disability" which may or may not really be at the core of the conflict.
Grace L
Data Precision, Powerful Words
51
11/10/20 at 8:17AM UTC
It would be good not to disclose that too much of a personal information. What really matters is that you are able / capable to perform the tasks you needed to do. A lot of people go through phases in their lives. The important thing is that you are doing your best to be a good person and will also do your best to be a good employee. Not everyone (especially at work) will be able or even ready to understand you. Good luck!
Tina M RadkeFinance/Accounting/Admin/Mgmt
12
11/09/20 at 1:38PM UTC
I would suggest not disclosing to the hiring manager. After you have the job, however I would suggest approaching HR and discussing with them. They will (should) keep your confidentiality and can be an especially useful ally in your success, and I think that the more they know sooner the better prepared and able they are to assist you if any problem should arise.
Beth ScottBe the change you want to see
80
11/09/20 at 12:31AM UTC
I absolutely would NOT disclose, especially to a potential employer. The ADA offers protection however, there are many other reasons not to offer you the position in the first place. I think you would be setting yourself up for a "thanks but no thanks" situation if you disclose. Wishing you all the best!
Rebecca Lee VCredentialing Specialist
3.44k
11/08/20 at 2:59PM UTC
Unless you depression and anxiety effects the way you do your job or need provisions, I wouldn't mention it. I also suffer from depression and anxiety, it is a struggle but I learned to live with it and not let it effect my work life.
Laura SCommunications & marketing professional
234
11/08/20 at 2:18PM UTC
I asked this of a career guidance counselor once, and she advised me not to disclose.
JYJ
6.67k
11/07/20 at 1:36PM UTC
Personally, I would not disclose these things to an employer. Unless you are unable to perform the duties they're paying you for, there's no good reason that this should even come up. You may want to consider a consult with a lawyer. The majority of consults are absolutely free. Then you'll know what your rights are in your state.
User deleted comment on 11/05/20 at 2:22PM UTC
