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Non-Obvious Disability in the Workplace:

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Presentation on theme: "Non-Obvious Disability in the Workplace:"— Presentation transcript:

1 Non-Obvious Disability in the Workplace:
ADA Trainer Network Module 3j Non-Obvious Disability in the Workplace: An Overview In this module we’re going to explore how perceptions of disability have developed and evolved over time as well as the impact society and legislation have had on creating and sustaining those views of disability. Facilitators should move somewhat quickly through these slides. Do not read the notes verbatim. The notes are meant for your reference to help give you the information to provide a context for the audience. These slides are meant to provide a background of understanding how different views of disability have evolved over time. It’s important to avoid having the audience get stuck on any one view or engage in lengthy debate over whether these views are accurate. Trainer’s Name Trainer’s Title Phone Number /Website Here

2 Disclaimer Information, materials, and/or technical assistance are intended solely as informal guidance, and are neither a determination of your legal rights or responsibilities under the ADA, nor binding on any agency with enforcement responsibility under the ADA. The Mid-Atlantic ADA Center is authorized by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) to provide information, materials, and technical assistance to individuals and entities that are covered by the ADA. The contents of this document were developed under a grant from the Department of Education, NIDRR grant number H133 A However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.

3 What are non-obvious disabilities?
(Arguably) The most common category of disability in the US Are covered by the ADA and the ADAAA just like obvious disabilities Disabilities that may be misunderstood, leading to a unique dynamic in the workplace

4 The workplace dynamic: Non-obvious disabilities
Disclosure may be a choice Greater social stigma “But you look just fine!”—Credibility issues Others may be more likely to “blame” people for their disability Employers often confused about accommodation practices

5 What are some examples of major types of non-obvious disability?
Arthritis Mental illness Diabetes Autism/Aspergers syndrome Learning disabilities ADD/ADHD AIDS/HIV Multiple Sclerosis Cancer Seizure disorder Multiple chemical sensitivity Other?

6 What do you think? Taking into account people with both new and existing conditions, about how many adult Americans experience a mental health disorder in a given year?* One in ten One in eight One in six One in four *National Alliance on Mental Illness. Mental Illness: Facts and Numbers. (Accessed at

7 What do you think? What is the leading cause of disability among people aged 15 – 44 in the US and Canada?* Cancer Depression Multiple Sclerosis Seizure disorder *“NIMH: The numbers count—Mental disorders in America.” National Institute of Health. (Available at [Citing 2004 World Health Report Annex Table 3 Burden of disease in DALYs by cause, sex and mortality stratum in WHO regions, estimates for Geneva: World Health Organization].

8 The most common type of disability among all age groups is:*
What do you think? The most common type of disability among all age groups is:* Arthritis Cancer Seizure disorder Asperger syndrome/autism *Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevalence of doctor-diagnosed arthritis and arthritis-attributable activity limitation—United States, 2003–2005. MMWR 2006;55:1089–1092. Available from:

9 What do you think? Overall, what percent of adults in America are diagnosed with one or more chronic illness disabilities?* 10% 20% 35% 50% *US Center for Disease Control. Accessed at

10 What do you think? Approximately what percent of veterans returning from Iraq or Afghanistan have PTSD, depression and/or traumatic brain injury? 10% 20% 30% 70% *RAND Corporation. (2008). Invisible Wounds of War. Accessed at

11 Why are nonobvious disabilities becoming more prevalent among US workers?
Our aging population Greater awareness/less shame Enhanced diagnostic/screening practices Increased survival of illnesses/injuries Environmental issues Other?

12 Nonobvious disabilities and the ADA: Legal considerations
Disclosure is a choice (except when requesting a reasonable accommodation) ADA: Three stages of employment have different disability inquiry conditions: Hiring: No disability inquiries during hiring (“pre-employment”) Post-offer/before work-starts: disability inquiries and medical examinations are OK, whether or not they are job-related, as long as this is required of all employees in the same job category. After work-start: Employer may make an inquiry if there is a reasonable belief an accommodation is needed

13 Nonobvious Disabilities and the Accommodation Process
Person only has a right to an accommodation if their disability, that is covered by the ADA, is interfering with their ability to perform essential functions of the job. Employer may (but is not required to) collect medical information related to the accommodation decision Accommodation discussion should include: Who else will be told and why? Choosing an accommodation—Creativity is your best resource

14 Can you think of some accommodation options? Arthritis
Joe A 38 year old customer support representative has difficulty walking long distances or sitting for more than 3 hours at a time due to arthritis. A resource: The Job Accommodation Network Adjusting chair (ergonomic chair, stand/lean stool) Adjust desk (standing/sitting desk) Work from home (full- or part-time) More frequent small breaks Be sure work environment temperature is appropriate

15 Can you think of some accommodation options? Major Depression
Ellen Three weeks ago, Ellen took leave from her job as a nurse because she was diagnosed with depression. She now will be returning to work, but has requested an accommodation for her return. While working, she will continue her treatment. A resource: The Job Accommodation Network Flexible hours to continue treatment Longer work breaks Job coach Employee Assistance Program Maintain open channels of communication Clarity of expectations

16 Can you think of some accommodation options? Diabetes
Mike Mike is a 28 year old high school science teacher. Two months ago, he was diagnosed with diabetes. He believes he has now learned to manage his condition. But he needs to check his blood once every three hours, needs short breaks to take his medication and needs to eat on a regular schedule. A resource: The Job Accommodation Network Schedule adjustments to include short breaks Private location to check blood Possible need to occasionally make unexpected exits to deal with low blood sugar Keep diabetes supplies nearby

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