When to Open Up at Work About a Learning Disability
By Sue Shellenbarger
originally posted at WSJ.com CareerJournal
Question: When is the right time to tell an employer about a learning disability such as dyslexia or ADHD?
--L.J., New York
Answer: Lawyers often advise clients with such so-called hidden disabilities not to disclose them unless they need some help in the workplace because of a disability, says Brian East, an attorney with Advocacy Inc., an Austin, Texas, nonprofit disability-rights organization. If your disability isn't hampering your work, "you may not want to disclose it because of the possibility of discrimination."
However, if your disability is causing job problems, it may be in your own best interest to disclose it, says Mr. East, who is also co-chairman of the disability rights committee of the National Employment Lawyers Association. For example, if you need an accommodation because your ADHD is making it difficult for you to comply with certain paperwork requirements, you would need to disclose your disability in order to receive help. Before doing so, however, you should have in mind a businesslike, positive way of presenting your need, plus a specific, reasonable request for accommodation. For ideas on accommodations, see www.jan.wvu.edu. Another potential reason for disclosing a disability: You are experiencing disability-related harassment on the job.
This article reprinted in full without permission for the purposes of education and research, as permitted by Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976.