Ingredient #4: Disclosure
Although you will most likely discuss this issue with your vocational counselor before you go on your first interview, this subject is so important that it really requires special attention. In the end, it is important for you to make the decision to tell an employer about your epilepsy and seizures in your own way and in your own time. Below is an outline developed by the National Epilepsy Foundation. It appears in their “Career Support Center Employment Workbook,” which can be found at: http://epilepsyfoundation.org/living/wellness/employment/upload/jobworkbook-finalexcerpt1.pdf.
| Time of Disclosure | Advantages | Disadvantages | Issues |
| On a job application (If the employer is covered by the ADA or Rehabilitation Act the request for information is voluntary. If covered by a state law, such questions may be legal.) |
• Honesty/peace of mind. | • Might disqualify you with no opportunity to present yourself and your qualifications. • Potential for discrimination |
• Do you know what legal protections are in place regarding information requested on a job application? • Need to do some basic research before applying for some jobs. • Early disclosure may avoid problems once you are hired. |
|
During an interview |
• Opportunity to respond briefly and positively in person to specific issues. • Can raise issue of accommodations you need or the fact that your epilepsy won't interfere with your job. |
• Puts responsibility on you to handle epilepsy issues clearly. • Too much talk on the issue may indicate possible problem. • Not being evaluated on your abilities. |
• How comfortable are you with discussing your epilepsy? • These are very difficult questions but ones that you can prepare to answer. |
| After the interview (When a job is offered but before you begin work.) | • If the disclosure changes the hiring decision and you are sure of your ability, then you may take legal action for discrimination. | • Might lead to distrust. | • Need to evaluate your seizure condition in light of your job duties. • Need to explain how epilepsy will not interfere with ability to perform job. |
| You will need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages and map out a plan that is right for you. Just remember that in most cases it is illegal for a prospective employer to ask you about a medical condition. Many people feel best disclosing their epilepsy after they have been offered a job. This way, you would know that epilepsy played no part in your not being chosen for a particular job. |