Author: April Ogden, Founder and CEO, It’s Your Outcome

Did you know that only 21% of working-age people with disabilities have jobs, compared to 65% of those without disabilities? This gap, reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, highlights significant challenges. As of July 31, 2024, the unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities was 8.2%, compared to 4.3% for those without disabilities (Bureau of Labor Statistics) (FRED). These statistics underscore the unique obstacles people with disabilities encounter. A major decision for many is whether to disclose their disability at work. So, when is sharing your story a significant change, and when can it backfire? Let’s dive in.

When It Works

Choosing to disclose your disability can have a significant impact, but the outcomes largely depend on the environment. Here are scenarios where self-disclosure can be particularly beneficial:

SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT

In a supportive workplace, disclosure can lead to better accommodations and increased productivity. According to the Job Accommodation Network, 59% of workplace accommodations cost nothing, and the rest usually cost around $500.

If your workplace is supportive, disclosure can lead to meaningful adjustments that enhance your work life.

AUTHENTIC RELATIONSHIPS

Openness about your disability can build trust and authentic relationships with colleagues, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic environment.

Openness can really foster deeper, more genuine connections within the right work environment.

ADVOCACY AND AWARENESS

Your story can raise awareness and influence company policies towards inclusivity.

Your disclosure can drive broader organizational change towards inclusivity.

ACCESS TO RESOURCES

Disclosure can unlock access to resources and support systems like specialized equipment or flexible working arrangements.

Access to the right resources can significantly improve your job performance and satisfaction.

While these benefits can be substantial, it’s crucial to be aware of potential downsides.

Why It Doesn’t Always Work

STIGMA

Stigma still exists. The National Organization on Disability reports that 62% of employees with disabilities have faced bias. Disclosure can lead to discrimination or different treatment.

Overcoming stigma involves educating colleagues and fostering an inclusive culture.

CAREER CONCERNS

Disclosure might limit career growth due to misconceptions about abilities.

Demonstrate your capabilities and seek allies to mitigate career concerns.

PRIVACY

Sharing your disability can feel like a loss of privacy, exposing you to unsolicited advice or pity.

Set clear boundaries to protect your privacy.

MIXED REACTIONS

Reactions to disclosure can vary widely, from supportive to indifferent or even hostile.

Prepare for varied reactions by having a support system in place and knowing your rights.

These challenges can vary significantly depending on whether a disability is visible or hidden.

Challenges for Those with Visible and Hidden Disabilities

VISIBLE DISABILITIES

Visible disabilities often lead to immediate judgments and biases, requiring constant effort to prove competence. Key Takeaway: Be prepared to educate and challenge biases continually.

HIDDEN DISABILITIES

Hidden disabilities, like chronic pain or mental health conditions, can lead to misunderstandings and lack of empathy.

Weigh potential understanding and support against risks of misunderstanding and skepticism.

Understanding these nuanced challenges is essential for making an informed decision. Here’s my personal take.

My Thoughts

Navigating the pros and cons of self-disclosure is something I’ve personally experienced. Sharing my disability has brought support and understanding but at times, it has also exposed me to bias and misunderstanding.

You can’t control biases, but you can educate others. Get comfortable with self-advocating if you choose to disclose.

Based on these experiences, here are some actionable tips.

Actionable Tips

1. Assess Your Environment:

Look at your workplace culture. Is it supportive of diversity and inclusion? This can help predict potential reactions to your disclosure.

2. Consult Trusted Advisors:

Talk to mentors, colleagues, or HR professionals for their insights and help weigh pros and cons.

3. Know Your Rights:

Understand your rights under disability laws and workplace accommodation policies. Resources like the Job Accommodation Network can help.

4. Prepare Your Narrative:

Craft a clear explanation of your disability and the specific accommodations you need to set the right expectations.

5. Start Small:

Consider disclosing to a trusted colleague or supervisor first to gauge their reaction before making a broader announcement.

Advice for Employers and Coworkers

Creating an inclusive environment is a shared responsibility. Here’s how employers and coworkers can support those who disclose their disabilities:

1. Foster a Supportive Culture:

Promote a workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion. Encourage open conversations about disabilities and provide training to reduce stigma.

2. Offer Accommodations:

Proactively offer reasonable accommodations and collaborate with employees to enhance productivity and well-being.

3. Educate Yourself and Others:

Stay informed about disability rights and inclusion practices to build awareness and empathy.

4. Respect Privacy:

Respect the privacy of colleagues who disclose their disability and avoid sharing their information without consent.

5. Support Career Growth:

Ensure employees with disabilities have equal opportunities for advancement and provide necessary support for their career growth.

We’ve released our 2024 Disability Ally Guide. Contact us to talk about how to get your company on board. The guide includes practical steps and resources for fostering a truly inclusive workplace, helping you move beyond just statements and policies to creating real, safe spaces for disclosure.

By implementing these practices, you can create a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported, encouraging more individuals to disclose their disabilities without fear.

Let’s Talk

We collaborate closely with applicants and employees to help them navigate the tough decision of whether to disclose their disability. We also sit down with employers to discuss how to create truly safe spaces for disclosure. Let’s face it, having policies, accessibility statements, and diversity statements posted on your public platforms is great, but the goal is to create a work environment for individuals to feel safe to disclose.

A safe and supportive environment is crucial for effective disclosure.

Next Steps

If you’re struggling with the decision to disclose your disability, remember you’re not alone. Reach out to support groups, mentors, or trusted colleagues to help navigate this journey. For personalized support and guidance, feel free to contact us.