Deciding Whether to Disclose your Mental Health to Your Employer

It’s very difficult to work while having an unstable mental health. Difficulty in concentrating, productivity in work gets affected. Facing all these issues while working, and yet trying to hide from everyone else becomes very tiring. It adds up extra pressure and increases your levels of stress.

It creates a dilemma within you, whether you should discuss these problems with your employer or not. As it is being reflected in your work, there is an added concern of losing your job.

Hence, below are few pointers which can help you decide whether you should discuss your mental health with your employer:

Supportiveness of the Person:

It’s always a good thing to first understand whether the person is supportive or not. Many times, the person starts making judgments about your situation. Hence, you don’t receive the required support. Thus, it is important to know first, how supportive the person is.

The Environment:

It’s always good to approach a boss who is open. The work environment affects anyone’s mood or behavior. If the environment is an open environment then it’s easier to approach your boss. But, if the environment is a closed one then it becomes very difficult to even have a conversation.

Your Relationship:

If you have a good relationship with your employer then it is easier to approach them. But, if you have a track record of work irregularities or constant conflicts with your boss, then it becomes difficult. Hence, it’s important to take your relationship with your boss in consideration.

Happening’s in The Society:

There is a time to reveal your mental health. It’s always good to know what’s happening in the society. If you approach your employer right after a big incident, then the first thing is judgment. They will automatically connect your situation to what is going on in the society. Also, they might end up saying, “it will go away”, without really listening or understanding your situation.

Amount of Disclosure:

It’s not always necessary that you have to be transparent. You should always understand how much to disclose and what to disclose. There is always a tendency to feel vulnerable if you disclose your condition completely.

Conclusion

If the response from the opposite person is positive, it is always a good feeling. It takes the weight off your chest. Sometimes, it even helps you to find your direction and solution to your problem. They can also help you in finding a suitable professional help. Also, it gives you space where you can actually express yourself and not hide behind your mask.

In conclusion, it is very difficult to work with a mental illness. But, if you find immediate support, it goes a long way.