Tag: Mental Health

Questions and answers on accommodating employees with mental disabilities

by Jonathan R. Mook The following article answers some common questions about the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) recently promulgated guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and mental health conditions. Q Why should employers review the EEOC’s mental health guidance?  A If they haven’t already dealt with the issue, many employers will be […]

EEOC provides guidance on mental health conditions in the workplace

by Howard Fetner The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently issued a resource document explaining the rights of job applicants and employees with mental health conditions. The document explains that applicants and employees with mental health issues are protected from discrimination and harassment based on their conditions, may be entitled to reasonable accommodations, and have […]

Sherlock: the final problem for employers

The series four finale of Sherlock cleverly illustrates the dangers of allowing the inmates to run the asylum. The show regularly covers behaviors that would alarm any employer, such as Sherlock abusing drugs, firing guns indoors whenever frustrated, and generally being delightfully bizarre. These oddities are some of the many reasons that Sherlock is a consultant […]

Are coworkers out to get paranoid employee?

by J. Steven Massoni Mental impairments are some of the most challenging disabilities to accommodate. Read on to learn about how one company managed a difficult situation with an employee who suffers from a mental health disorder and how your company should respond in similar circumstances.  Imagine this Kenneth Tyler has worked for the company […]

Understanding strengths, weaknesses of bipolar employees

Disabilities of all types pose challenges for employers and employees alike. As employers struggle to find ways to help employees with disabilities do their jobs, they also must fulfill obligations created by laws designed to prevent discrimination and violate privacy. Like other disabilities, bipolar disorder presents its own unique challenges—concerns that will be explored in […]

Workplace health through a new lens: steps to promote psychological well-being

by Cathy Chandler The workplace can play an essential role in helping individuals maintain positive mental health. However, it also can be a stressful environment that may contribute to mental health issues and illness. In a 2009 study three out of 10 Canadian employees reported that their work environments were not psychologically safe or healthy. […]

Choose Your Words Carefully Regarding Mental Health

With or without sensitivity training, most people try to be considerate when speaking with someone with a physical disability or a health condition, and they choose their words carefully so as not to offend the individual. However, these same considerate people often forget that things can be said—or not said—which can hurt the feelings of […]

First-Aid Training … for Mental Health?

While it’s commonplace for employees to be trained in first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in many workplaces, the concept of first responders for mental health crises is still in its infancy. Millions of workers take sick leave or paid time off each year because of mental illness, and employers face lost revenue through absenteeism, […]

Dealing with mental disabilities in the workplace

by Jonathan Mook These days, the news is filled with stories of returning veterans who suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental impairments and have problems adjusting to civilian life at home and in the workplace. The issues employers face when dealing with veterans and other employees with mental disorders were put on […]