Depression In Employment

[dannyday5821]

looking for advice about depression and employment. I recently started a new job, which I've been at for only one and a half weeks. Before then, I left my last job due to depression, and was out of work for 6 months. During that time I'd constantly struggle with sleeping patterns, moods, self harming, and opiate abuse. Although the self harm and opiate abuse isn't as bad as before, I still struggle with sleeping patterns and moods.

At the time of applying for this new job, I ticked down I have a disability (which is true, but something totally different) but didn't mention depression, because a) didn't think it was covered under the law (until someone told me otherwise) and b) because I was worried it would impact my chances of getting a new job.

I was obviously very happy to be back at work, but I'm really struggling with the hours, and I had a very bad weekend, and I'm finding it very difficult coping with full time work in all honesty.

I had to take today off sick, and already they sound very annoyed with me :( of course, it looks like I'm taking the piss after bank holiday weekend, but that simply isn't true :(

Am I "safe" to be honest with my new employers, and tell them the truth about my struggling to cope with depression, and that I don't think realistically, I can deal with 9-5 mon-friday hours, or do I just give them a "half truth" and kind of lie to protect myself?

I'm going back to the doctors tonight, but I'm really really worried how this is going to affect my new job, I just don't know what to do :'(

can anyone advise me or guide me in the right direction?

[China Doll]

Well for a start I'd be honest, at least then they can see if there's anyway they can change your hours. I don't think you will protect yourself if you tell half truths, especially if you then go on to tell the whole truth in the future.

However, be prepared as I believe in the first year of employment that you can be let go for any reason - I'm willing to be prooved wrong on this - but given that you did not mention your medical history, that you're already struggling with hours and you've already called sick in your first week, it is entirely possible that this job may not be suitable for either you or your employer may not think you are suitable for the job. Apologies if this sounds hars but I do think you may need to prepare yourself and think carefully about your future and how your health impacts on it.

[dannyday5821]

Thanks China Doll, don't worry about being harsh - but actually I think maybe you're right, it be better to honest now, instead of leaving it later. It's going to be difficult either way really, I'm on 6 months probation, so they can kick me out whenever they feel like it for whatever reason anyway, and there's nothing I can do about it. That's why I'm reluctant to be "honest"

I think I'll speak to them about reduced hours first, and see what happens, then maybe judge things from there on... depending what happens

thanks for answering though :)

[China Doll]

Yeah but if you don't give them a good reason to reduce your hours then you look unreliable and that'll put you on a hiding to no where too. I'd tell the truth.

[dannyday5821]

...yeah, I see your point... "how" is best to tell the truth though? if you see my meaning? my reasons for depression are personal, how much do I say to make the point clear without spilling my entire life story...?

(im not being saracastic btw i am asking genuinely!)

[factor-fiction]

Presumably when you return to work they will discuss your absence with you- either formally or informally. That will be your opportunity to let them know something about your issues and arrange a discussion about how to make it work best from their point of view and yours

[Mamyalynne]

You don't need to give your life history, but say something along the lines of 'depression due to personal circumstances' - as China has said, if you open up a bit then they are more likely to respect you and work with you towards a solution if possible.

[pixie373]

You should be honest. Depression is a diagnosis in itself, you don't have to give any more details than you're comfortable with. If it's diagnosed and being treated, you are a safer bet than someone who is just unreliable. It may be that this job is too much, too soon for you, but hopefully a chat with your boss will help you decide.

[chelle7272]

You don't need to go into a lot of detail, you can just say you have been suffering forom depression and explain the impact that it has in relation to work.
Agree with the advice given, it is better to be honest.

[Maydup]

You have nothing to lose my telling them the truth.

If you don't and you continue to struggle along taking the odd day sick here and there, they are likely to let you go anyway. At least you have a chance to address things and to see if they will reduce your hours officially.