[Goals2017]

Had my orientation today. Doing my employee paper work I decided to answer no to the do you have a mental illness/disability I just didn't feel the urgency to answer that question. What do you guys think?

[Shazerac]

I don't think you have to disclose that. It's a privacy issue.

I can't even believe they are able to ask that! The nerve!

[UpDownAround]

On security clearance they can ask if you have ever been treated, but I didn't think they could for most jobs. But employee rights are being rescinded left and right (mostly right) these days...

[Goals2017]

Yeah that's what I thought that's why I put no lol

[jacky8807]

they can ask but I can lie lol
I'm in the opinion of always put NO
Just say NO lol

[Daonnachd]

I'm gobsmacked. I don't even know what to say. It seems such an invasion of privacy, though.

Originally Posted by ElsaMars

I can't even believe they are able to ask that! The nerve!

I live and work in MA and I think it's required by law here. I had to answer it even at my part-time jobs back when I was 14 (I'm 26 now, for comparison). I haven't seen a job here that hasn't asked it. And I used to work in retail at Macy's, as well at a smaller movie theatre that wasn't owned by a large, parent corporation. So between small and big, they all ask. So I can't blame the stores themselves because they have no control over it. Not their fault

BTW, you have 3 options here in MA: yes, no, and "rather not say". So you technically don't have to answer it if you choose the last option.

[Trippin2.0]

I'm of the mindset that the question is posed for the folks who are being hired with a known disability.

Like if you have a wheelchair, or a MI...

Here companies have to at least appear to provide equal employment opportunities, so makes sense that they ask intrusive questions.

PS I say "no"... Except my last rodeo, I told them during my interviewing process.

[Sunflower123]

Is it only the interview process where they can't ask? This just seems wrong. I would have said no as well.

[East17]

It is intrusive, but on the other hand, if you initially say 'no' to having a mental health problem, then get hired and someway down the line have to take time off work or require adjustments or accommodations to be made to your role, hours etc and didn't disclose, that can potentially cause problems and you may find the employer doesn't have to grant any accommodations, or even dismiss because you've lied on the application forms.
It's a tricky one...

[1978dd]

Originally Posted by Goals2017

Had my orientation today. Doing my employee paper work I decided to answer no to the do you have a mental illness/disability I just didn't feel the urgency to answer that question. What do you guys think?

No, not if you want the job!

[Goals2017]

Thanks everyone for the info I appreciate it!

[bioChE]

I'd answer no

[Teddy Bear]

I always say I have a mental illness

[5150DirtDiva]

Every job I have ever had asks this. I feel it is innocuous because I never heard anything about it since. It is for metrics and quotas. You certainly have the right to not disclose though.

[5150DirtDiva]

It does not even matter in the SF-86, you can still obtain one, even a TS.

Originally Posted by UpDownAround

On security clearance they can ask if you have ever been treated, but I didn't think they could for most jobs. But employee rights are being rescinded left and right (mostly right) these days...

[WildcatVet]

You are not required to reveal a disability (including mental illness) unless it will interfere with your ability to perform your employment duties. But if you don't, your employer is not obligated to give you special accommodations (days off, flexible hours, etc.).