Working With Mental Health Disabilities: A Guide to Laws, Rights, and Advocacy

In the blog, Mental Health Disabilities and Employment: A Guide to Rights & Advocacy, Aaron Konopasky, senior attorney-advisor for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), offered his expertise on disability law, rights, and policy.

Key Rights and Protections:

1. Reasonable Accommodations: Employees with mental health conditions are entitled to reasonable accommodations that enable them to perform their job. This may include adjustments in work schedules, responsibilities, or the work environment to support their mental health needs.
2. Protection Against Discrimination: The ADA prohibits discrimination based on mental health conditions. Employers cannot legally make employment decisions, such as hiring, firing, or promotions, based on an individual’s mental health status.

Common Challenges Faced by Employees:

1. Stigma and Disclosure: Many employees hesitate to disclose their mental health conditions due to fear of stigma or negative repercussions. This can lead to challenges in receiving the necessary accommodations and support at work.
2. Lack of Awareness: Employers and colleagues may lack awareness of mental health conditions, leading to misunderstandings and inadequate support. This highlights the need for continued education and awareness initiatives in the workplace.

For more detailed information on these topics, visit the Counseling Schools webpage on mental health and employment advocacy.

• Last Updated:
• Created:
• Resource Publication Date: 2021
• Organizational Author(s): Counseling Schools
• Posted by: Damon Jones
• Posted in: Global