INTRODUCTION:
A job seeker asked, “What questions can employers ask about mental illness during a job interview?”
QUESTIONS ALLOWED:
“This is a great question because many job seekers don’t know their rights when it comes to health-related interview questions. The short answer to this is, “None.
I get it. We’ve lived the past two-plus years through a pandemic, which has caused fear, uncertainty, and loss. It also limited our interpersonal interactions with others. So, it’s no wonder that mental health support needs have increased exponentially. It is the number one workplace concern right now. It’s also no surprise the employers want to know ahead of time if their potential new hire might need support in this space.
The problem comes when an employer makes the decision to not hire you because of your mental health status. Just like any other health challenge, they should not be the bases for employment decisions, which is discriminatory.
Mental Illness is just that…a health challenge, and it is personal to you. So, it is generally illegal for interviewers to ask related questions. It is also inappropriate for interviewees to discuss their personal health during a job interview. And, yes, this includes mental health, both current and past challenges.
I am aware of only two exceptions to my initial answer.
The first is that interviewers may ask mental health professionals about their approach to treating patients because that is core to their profession. The second is that, when a candidate’s pre-employment background check reveals concerning activity. Even if mental illness was a contributing factor, the employer may then legally ask the candidate for an explanation of what happened and the legal outcome. This is a part of what is called the pre-adverse action process, which allows the employer to rescind their job offer under certain circumstances. This is only after they have extended the offer of employment and are preparing to bring you onboard.
Don’t let your mental health status stop you from pursuing your goals. You are vitally important to this world. Mental Illness does not automatically render you unqualified for a great career; however, not seeking help and adhering to a prescribed treatment plan can knock you out of the game. Take advantage of available resources and treatment to help you have enjoy a full, productive, happy, healthy, impactful life, while successfully managing your health.
IN CONCLUSION:
An effective interview preparation strategy includes learning what your rights are as a job candidate. Although you should be honest throughout the selection process; you can decline to answer inappropriate interview questions. My next post will delve into this topic in more detail. I’ll also give you some recommended responses to such questions.
Remember that if you ever experience suicidal feelings, or need to talk with a trained professional, immediately seek help. Google “suicide prevention near me,” or “mental health services” to find the resources available to you in your immediate area.
My goal is to help everyone to live their best career life. That includes being healthy. So, if you’ve found this post helpful, share it. Like it. Subscribe. Or leave me a comment. I’d love to hear from you.
Career Search Success to You! Go Get Your New Job!
