Skip to navigation Skip to content

How Much Should I Tell?

MS Navigator Tip

Disclosure in the workplace is a big decision, one not to take lightly. Call our MS Navigators who specialize in employment to discuss the pros and cons for your unique situation and understand the implications of disclosing or not so you can make an informed decision.

Please call 1-800-344-4867.

Share

In this article

Overview

Once you have decided to whom you want to disclose, your next step is to decide how much information to share. You may decide to share some or all of the information about your MS. Consider the following options when making this important decision.

"I have a medical condition"

When requesting time off or an accommodation, it is your right under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to state only that you have a medical or neurological condition. You are not required to say that you have MS.
 
However, if the information you provide is not sufficient to determine that you have a qualified disability under the ADA, your employer has the right to ask for more detailed information — which may lead to disclosure of your diagnosis. Since state and local definitions of disability may differ, it is worth your while to check with state and local human rights offices.
 
Partial disclosure leaves the door open to speculation on the part of those you have told; they may wonder what you’re hiding and make incorrect assumptions based on incomplete information.
Without an accurate understanding of MS, your employer may jump to the conclusion that you are unable to handle increased responsibility and pass you up for promotion.

"I have MS"

Full disclosure gives you the opportunity to educate your employer about MS and how it has impacted you, and opens the door to communicate your needs as they come up. The National MS Society (can provide you with education materials for your employer. Call an MS Navigator at 1-800-344-4867 or search our library.
 
Full disclosure also eliminates any speculation regarding your condition. You may find that you get the support and assistance you need as well as welcome relief from the stress of hiding your condition.

Bottom line

Although you may wish to give as little information as possible, partial disclosure may not be sufficient when requesting an accommodation or medical leave. Your employer may request additional information to determine that you have a disability that qualifies under the ADA — which may lead to disclosure of your diagnosis.

Share


The National MS Society is Here to Help

Newly Diagnosed
If you or somone close to you has recently been diagnosed, access our MS information and resources.

Start Here

Start Here
© 2024 The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a tax exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Its Identification Number (EIN) is 13-5661935.