Emotional Reasons for Disclosure
Many people consider disclosing information about their medical condition or impairment at work because they feel the need to share the information with the people around them. Feeling comfortable on the job — particularly with one's boss and co-workers — can make the difference between a satisfying job situation and a very unpleasant one. But while there may be significant emotional reasons for disclosing this important information now, there are also significant reasons to delay disclosure.
Possible Reasons to Disclose Now
- Keeping a secret can be stressful and create anxiety.
- Once you disclose, you may feel a sense of relief — and find support from people in the workplace that you did not have before.
- Disclosing medical information sooner rather than later may provide an opportunity to speak about your MS in a positive light, as opposed to waiting until a problem arises.
- It makes it easier to communicate your needs in the event that your condition changes and you need an accommodation.
Possible Reasons to Delay Disclosure
- Once you have given people this important information about yourself, you can’t take it back.
- People have their prejudices and, despite your best efforts, may react negatively toward you. They may incorrectly view you as someone less competent or less able to handle stress.
- People may feel less comfortable around you or worry that your MS might be contagious.
- You could be held back from promotions following disclosure but find it difficult to prove this was due to your MS.
