There isn’t one magic right way to disclose a disability. There are many ways you can. Here are some best practices to make the disclosure a little smoother for you. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), your employer is not obligated to give any accommodation unless you let your employer know that you have a disability.
You do not have to tell everyone at work. You should tell your immediate supervisor of your disability if it is affecting your job performance, but before it has had a negative impact on your performance. If you do not tell them before, then they have every right to take punitive actions against your negative performance.
Set up a time to meet with them and have a conversation. It’s even better if you have some suggestions for reasonable accommodation. Askjan.org is a great resource that has possible accommodations for different disabilities. Your employer must provide “reasonable accommodations.” That is a very broad term so that’s why it’s helpful to have a resource to reference. (Your employer does not have to pay for things you would need to function in your everyday life. For example, if you need a wheelchair to get around, that’s not accommodation, it is a necessity for you.)
You may also want to disclose to your coworkers, but it is completely your decision. If your supervisor knows and you can receive the accommodation you need to do your work, then you have done what you need to do to be successful at work.
Your employer may ask for proof of your disability, especially if it is a disability that is not easily seen. This proof can come in many forms, including documentation from a doctor or healthcare professional. This article has many frequently asked questions answered about medical documentation.
Lastly, it’s good to remember that although it may feel weird to share, disabilities are nothing to be ashamed of. You requesting accommodations to do your work is in the best interest of everyone involved in the work because it means you will have what’s necessary to do your job.
Your employer may have no idea how to navigate having an employee with a disability. I would also share askjan.org as a resource for them so that they can better understand employee/employer rights for people with disabilities.
If you need help navigating these conversations please reach out to our office or contact Disability Services. Or, visit Handshake to make an appointment.
For information on upcoming Events and Webinars, click here. Head over to our YouTube channel to find previous workshops and employer information sessions.