Working with your condition

Work is good for people’s health and wellbeing. It gives people a sense of purpose, helps to build confidence and self-esteem, contributes to their happiness, and rewards them financially.

Task: Read this article to learn helpful advice for managing your condition in the workplace.

Here is our key advice about managing your condition in the workplace:

Remember you’re not alone

If you’re experiencing challenges with performing work tasks or not feeling confident in your abilities, you’re not alone. Most people experience some form of concern, nervousness, or lack of confidence at work. Remember that everyone feels overwhelmed or unsure sometimes, especially in the first few days and weeks of starting a new job. Here’s the secret – you can do it.

Get to know your team

Building strong relationships with your colleagues will not only make work more enjoyable, but it will also lead to a more productive team.

Open up (if you feel comfortable)

Once you’ve established those relationships, you might choose to be open with your team about your condition. It is up to you about whether you want to do this – you’re not required to share information about your condition (unless it has workplace health and safety implications) but being open about your injury, illness, or disability can lead to greater understanding and awareness.

It can also lead to better support and stronger relationships and friendships with your teammates.

Get the right support

All employees are entitled to reasonable adjustments/accommodations to support them to perform their role. Whether this is physical modifications to the workplace, special equipment, training, flexible/part time hours, or simply ongoing support – you are your own best guide. Know what you need and don’t be afraid to ask for it.

Know your limits

If your injury, illness, or disability has an impact on your health and wellbeing needs at work, be aware of this and proactively manage this. While there are people available to assist, you know yourself best – trust yourself and look after your own health and wellbeing first.

Know your rights

You are not required to share information with your employer or teammates about your condition unless it has an impact on health and safety. If your employer or a team member asks inappropriate personal questions about your condition, don’t feel pressured to answer. If you need advice about your rights, speak with your manager or HR department.

When you start anew job, be confident in your ability and the fact that your employer chose you. When you come across challenges, know that support is available and that the benefits of work far outweigh the challenges.