Oh, RJ! Nothing sent through the company "pipeline" is EVER confidential!!!

A good rule of thumb to work from is this: "If you must tell, tell only those whom you must," such as Human Resources Department, where this information MUST be kept in strict confidence. And even then, it is always available to your superiors at any time and for any reason.

As much as we all like to think we have confidantes and solid friendships within our workplaces, it is usually not the case when push comes to shove - as noted by the "evidence" collected about you. Worse yet, is the fact that you e-mailed your private conversations / concerns on company time and company equipment to which they have every right to monitor.

Although I do not know the legalities that govern the workplace in Australia, I don't imagine it is that much different than here in Canada (we both use Common Law). One cannot be fired simply for having a mental illness, but they certainly can get rid of you for disrupting the workplace atmosphere. They may not fire you directly, but they can (and will) make life so miserable for you that it forces you to leave. Happens more often than one might think.

Like another member said, if you have access to a Human Resource Department, use it. It is the safest way to ensure, at least, compensation for disability benefits or for compensation should you be asked to leave.

Sorry this is not a very upbeat post, but I have seen this happen many times, and have experienced the same thing myself.

The almighty dollar ALWAYS reigns! People are ALWAYS dispensible. Never forget that....

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