Time of Disclosure
The question of when epilepsy to an employer can cause an employee a great deal of anxiety. Before disclosing any information, it is essential for an employee to have extensive knowledge about their particular type of seizure disorder, the characteristics of seizures, how frequently they occur, first aid procedures if required, and the length of recovery time following a seizure. This information will help the employer better understand epilepsy and make accommodations required.
Disclosure during an interview
Advantages - honesty
- peace of mind
- provides opportunity to respond to an employer's questions and clarify issues.
Disadvantages - The onus is on you to present information about seizure disorder in a clear and positive manner.
- Over-emphasis on epilepsy may indicate that you are not being evaluated on your skills and experience.
Disclosure when you are offered the job
(before starting work)
Advantages - honesty
- peace of mind
- you know that you have been offered the job based on your skills and experience
Disadvantages - employer may feel that you have withheld information during the first interview
- may lead to distrust
Disclosure after starting work
Advantages - opportunity to prove yourself on the job
Disadvantage - worry that you may have a seizure before disclosing
Disclosure after a seizure
Advantage - opportunity to prove yourself
Disadvantages - your safety may be at risk if inappropriate first aid measures are applied
- not disclosing prior to a seizure can perpetuate myths and misunderstandings about epilepsy
- fear of having a seizure before disclosure
- difficulty re-establishing trust with both employer and co-workers
No Disclosure
Advantage - epilepsy is never an issue unless you have a seizure
Disadvantages - constant worry about having a seizure on the job
- studies indicate that people who do not disclose have a higher seizure rate
- your safety may be at risk if inappropriate first aid measures are applied
- perpetuates myths and misunderstandings about epilepsy
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