to tell or not to tell

A while back this topic was brought up wether to tell your employer that you have ADD. I think another member here had done so and subsequently lost his job.

I have decided NOT to tell my employer because it just presents a whole host of legal issues, not to mention the social issues. I do plan on telling one person at work of my ADHD simply because I'm taking medication now and if anything should happen to me, someone needs to know. I know who I'm going to tell but finding the right time has been a problem.

I just want to reiterate my opinion that it is better not to tell the employer. Especially in these economic times - why give them another reason to let you go?

Thanks.
The only compelling reason I can think of to tell your employer is if there is some accommodation you feel you need and think that the need for the accommodation is directly related to ADHD and you. Otherwise, I'm with you KJ..... I told my current Director (who is also a lawyer and a LCSW) and I can't see that it did any good whatsoever. I thought, being a LCSW, she would take an interest in learning a bit more about how ADHD "plays out" in the workplace with someone she works with. But alas! she had little interest beyond my initial conversation with her about it! I sought no job accommodations, and she sought no further information... not even a "follow-up"conversation. Perhaps the "lawyer in her" was concerned that she might be perceived as "singling me out" by discussing it with me further.... John - Thanks for your comments. Perhaps your Director was uncomfortable with your openness. Perhaps she just didn't know what to say. Perhaps she felt that she has to show impartiality to you. Perhaps she thought that maybe you were telling her because you'd "want" something. Who knows.

I know it probably hurts because ignorance is more damaging than questions. I still am not going to tell my boss but I did share with a couple of co-workers. We haven't really discussed this and it's probably just as well. Even though my ADHD affects my job to some degree, I'm not comfortable with being open about it. I'm still ashamed. (I know that's a problem and I'm working on it)

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