Disclose mental illness status on health questionnaire?

I just received a tentative offer of employment for a government job (USA, state of CA), pending a background check, further HR paperwork, and review and final approval. Part of the paperwork is a health questionnaire that will accompany the pre-employment physical examination. One of the questions asks if I have ever had a mental illness and what the current situation is. Should I be honest about this? The job, itself, deals with confidential medical information; so I understand how one could argue that it is a valid question to ask. And I have been offered the job, albeit on a "tentative" basis. But I don't want this question to be part of the reason for them to revoke the offer.



Any insights from others, especially if you work with a government agency and/or deal with confidential information as part of the job.

I'd say be honest with them, because if you lie and get found out it'll be worse than if you tell them honestly what your mental health conditions are. Or alternatively, say yes you do have mental health conditions but don't want to disclose them

If your honest with them, they can't do anything to you for being honest

I agree about honesty. Sat it's been treated or is being treated and you are stabilzed with treatment.

Perhaps this link can be helpful ...

Depression, PTSD, & Other Mental Health Conditions in the Workplace: Your Legal Rights