The Ongoing Conversation About MS at Work

Possible Disclosure Scenarios

The specifics of your situation influence how others respond to your disclosure and to your ongoing issues. Let’s take three scenarios in which disclosure typically occurs:

You had created a solid track record at work before you disclosed. That can mean:

• Co-workers are likely to be supportive around any accommodations you need because they’ve already formed an impression that you are a good worker. They are likely to overlook any changes as long as they perceive your continued commitment to the team.
• People think of you as a “healthy” person and are likely to forget you have MS. You might appreciate that, but it can be a problem if you ask for accommodations because others regard you as the person you always were. They do not understand why you need anything to be different.
• Because your symptoms are invisible, other people can lose patience and think you are focusing on what you cannot do. It is not uncommon for people to tell you to “get on with your life.” They do not understand that you are doing just that, but that your life has changed. 

You disclosed during the hiring phase because you needed an accommodation to minimize the impact of MS on your work. This can mean:

• Although you disclosed that you live with MS, its precise effects on your work are unclear. It could take further explanation for others to understand how a symptom affects your ability to do a task.
• If you received a nonstandard “accommodation” (such as flexible work hours that are generally not an option), it will be noticed.  Some might assume that you have an illness.  Others might come up with another, more negative, explanation. 
• Although you disclosed, people typically forget over time if you “look fine.” If your performance changes or declines and you sense surprise, remind them that your illness, although real, is not visible.

When you take a medical leave because of MS, people will have questions about your health when you return. This can mean:

• You have less “control” over who does or does not know that you have MS. This can be particularly true within work teams, in client relationships or with anyone who was impacted by your absence.
• Unexpected absences can burden others. Even if you are not up to full speed when you return, assure them that you intend to be a full member of the team as soon as possible.