Question!

Thanks for the replies

Obviously I'm aware the stigma is very high with BPD and to be honest I think many potential employers would most likely just lump me into the category of 'mentally unstable' without knowing the facts of the disorder. And who is more likely to get the job? The 'crazy' applicant or the 'normal' applicant?

However, the only reason I would be swayed into being honest with them is the fact that I really can't say what mood i'll be in from one day to the next. I can be fine and the following day a complete emotional wreck (i'm sure you all understand!) and I wouldn't want my boss thinking i'm just lazy or pulling a sicky. I'd want them to know there is an actual reason why I might not be able to make it into work on certain days. Maybe my veiw is idealistic.

I think I am just lucky where I work. My manager is lovely and is aware of my issues and never questions me about time off. I've also been told by her that it's important to let employers know because it effects the legal side of things... it's important the occupational health department know of any illnesses as this stops people being discriminated against or fired unfairly. She has basically told me there is no way my current employer would be able to 'get rid of me' as I would have a very good case against them.

There has always been a 'medical history' section on any application form I have ever filled out, I was just unsure about what I should put in this. I find the pressure of lying and pretending to be 'normal' far too stressful. I'd rather be honest. But I obviously understand a lot of your points about not saying anything. Perhaps I could apply for a job, not tell them about my BPD, hopefully get the job, and then when it becomes obvious I am unwell tell them about it? Or maybe just the gist? I don't know. It really pisses me off that there is so much stigma. I need to earn a living too! I'm not really in any place to be in full time employment at the moment but it's either that or starve and live on the street you know?

Ophelia333 wrote:Thanks for the replies

Obviously I'm aware the stigma is very high with BPD and to be honest I think many potential employers would most likely just lump me into the category of 'mentally unstable' without knowing the facts of the disorder. And who is more likely to get the job? The 'crazy' applicant or the 'normal' applicant?

However, the only reason I would be swayed into being honest with them is the fact that I really can't say what mood i'll be in from one day to the next. I can be fine and the following day a complete emotional wreck (i'm sure you all understand!) and I wouldn't want my boss thinking i'm just lazy or pulling a sicky. I'd want them to know there is an actual reason why I might not be able to make it into work on certain days. Maybe my veiw is idealistic.

I think I am just lucky where I work. My manager is lovely and is aware of my issues and never questions me about time off. I've also been told by her that it's important to let employers know because it effects the legal side of things... it's important the occupational health department know of any illnesses as this stops people being discriminated against or fired unfairly. She has basically told me there is no way my current employer would be able to 'get rid of me' as I would have a very good case against them.

There has always been a 'medical history' section on any application form I have ever filled out, I was just unsure about what I should put in this. I find the pressure of lying and pretending to be 'normal' far too stressful. I'd rather be honest. But I obviously understand a lot of your points about not saying anything. Perhaps I could apply for a job, not tell them about my BPD, hopefully get the job, and then when it becomes obvious I am unwell tell them about it? Or maybe just the gist? I don't know. It really pisses me off that there is so much stigma. I need to earn a living too! I'm not really in any place to be in full time employment at the moment but it's either that or starve and live on the street you know?

you're very lucky to have that type of support where you are working. I think this is the minority, not the majority and at least my experience although the BPD caused so many problems and I NEVER was able to hold a job more then one which was numerous years, I could never tell them either. It was painfully obvious by discussions I listened to while saying "if you only knew you were talking about me" I no longer work outside the home. I cant but the thought of having to tell a perspective employer is a good enough reason for me. Even the thought gives me the willies