mmgsc, I used to know alot about the ADA. If I remember correctly, you only have to provide them with information about your disabling condition and they are required to make a reasonable accommodation, only if/when it is justifiable and is not cost prohibitive based on the number of employees and other red tape.. That reasonable accommodation, for example, may include a separate work area, a place to have lunch by yourself and/or something like a go-between for your interactions with others. However, I would strongly urge you to contact your local Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (called different things in different states). Most offices have someone who can assist you. If you do not feel you need a reasonable accommodation and they are aware of your disabling condition you are not obligated to inform them of medications changes. The Department of Justice is responsible for the enforcement of the ADA and they have alot of information on their webpage which you might find useful. Please remember, I do not practice in the field of rehabilitation anymore and consult with them.
So two resources, your State Office or Department of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Department of Justice website. Google ADA compliance. Hope this helps.
Thanks for sharing your experience. In regards to making any decisions about your medication you should seek consult from your doctor or pharmacist. Focus on you and what you need to do for you.
Members, what have your experiences been with telling your superiors at work about your medication and medical conditions?
We are here for you, keep posting and we will respond.
I really really want to change my medication. My erratic boss just got moved, and an 'interim' is in place. I don't feel he wants to settle in too much, so I do not want to be a problem employee. My direct supervisor has made an active effort to NOT learn about my condition - I feel he was given a 'heads-up' by either HR or my earlier boss.
I'm concerned that if I change my meds I will have transition issues. Since my actual work is routine, I do not feel it would be affected. However, my bigger issue is social problems - I do not play well with others when I am having a bad period. Even though my day to day work is quite separate from the 'team', I am still held to that concept.
HR and my old boss know I am in treatment for Major Depressive Disorder with some Complex PTSD symptoms. They have not been consistently supportive.
So advice needed - do I tell anyone - and who - about the potential change? Am I doing an 'official' notification,
à la ADA, or just a passing mention, or just keep my head down and hope for the best? Nobody has any idea who will be the 'permanent' new boss, so I'm just trying to make it that far. Since my husband is out of work, it's all on me.
