Job Application - How Honest?

[MadMen]

I'm applying for a job in the mental health sector. Do you think it would be beneficial or a bad idea to mention my own mental health 'issues'...?

Serious question and need some advice from someone with experience.

Thanks.

[VHG]

I have had depression on and off for years, and I am now retired from work.

Every so often I get an email from an old work colleague asking how I am and as soon as I mention depression I never hear from them again.

I think it best to say nothing, though you may be in trouble if they find out afterwards (if you need to take time off sick for example).

[MadMen]

Well yes, that's what I was thinking. I wouldn't have gone into too much detail, but I'm just worried that even the slight mention of mental health may put them off.
I was thinking of saying "as a former suffering of...." but that wouldn't be 100% honest.

[1ndex]

awww shux...thats me out ;(

For my tuppence worth I wouldn't - if the pay was good....blag blag blag

[vodkancoke]

If it were me, I wouldn't. But this is coming from the girl who has applied to BA for a cabin crew job with a dodgy ankle! Interview is in 2 weeks and I have to practice to walk in heels without a limp! lol :/

[MadMen]

Lol. Thanks for the advise. I will listen to it and keep schtum!

Voddy, good luck with that. May want to forget the nude loubs, and get yourself some kitten heels! :D

[vodkancoke]

My nude Loubs haven't been on this stupid foot for over a year! I have opted for sensible Clarks (yes, Clarks!) black 3 inchers. Thank goodness most of the day will be spent sitting! lol

Good luck with your application....fingers crossed for you xx

[RATTER15]

I think I would just be honest, if they find out that you have had problems you will be sacked for lying. They very often do ask these questions like: have you ever suffered from mental problems? Yes or No.

Say yes and the play it down, you wouldn't want to get the sack from a job you love for not being honest, that could go with you your reference.

[1ndex]

Loads-a-dosh soon cures depression. Blag it and good luck

[RATTER15]

I was very upfront and honest about my severe Dyslexia, I still got the job, I explained that it gave me a deeper understanding of the problems that other people can suffer from. I got the job working with people with disabilities and challenging behaviour etc.

[MadMen]

Thanks Voddy. xx

The thing is, my 'issues' don't really effect me during office hours (lol - seriously) so I'm wary of mentioning anything that they MAY assume would hinder me at work, but in actual fact it wouldn't (hopefully) effect my job at all. Well, it never has in the past anyway.
I've done it now, just said I have both personal and professional experience of mental health. Didn't say anything further.

I'll let you know how I get on.

Thanks again :-)

[ummmm]

I've worked in mental health and I wouldn't mention it.

Get hold of Prendy on FB.....he works in mental health.

[MadMen]

I've done this kind of job before, last year in fact, but it's not really my 'field' so I'm just trying to really sell myself and make them see I am a good candidate for the role - despite not having years and years of experience.
I've pressed submit now, and didn't go into it or make myself sound mental... :P

Thanks again :))

[JonnyBoy12]

I have a mental health problem too. I live in a place called planet Earth which for some reason some people think is great. Can't think why?

Does anyone else have this problem as well?

[DTCwordfan]

Take your condom off, Johnny; then you will see, smell and hear more of this beautiful planet we live on.

[tezmand]

i work in mental health and my answer would be yes be truthful, we have people working for us that are ex junkies , alchohilics , and suffer with bi polar our company gives everyone a chance hopefully the company your applying to will too good luck

[MadMen]

Thanks for the further responses. Have sent the form in now, just said I had both personal and professional experience.
Hopefully I'll get an interview and I can explain how I think my own experiences give me a much better understanding of the challenges people with mental health face.

[DTCwordfan]

Good luck Maddy..........

[boxtops]

that sounds a good compromise, madmen. It "will out" if you ever need Occy Health - it's best to be honest, IMO. It's not that unusual these days, I find it refreshing that people can admit to past MH problems much more openly than in the past. Good luck!

[ilovetohelp13]

I suggest for you to not mention anything at all. If it's something manageable, then you can deal with personally without the need to involve work.