Potential Accommodations on the Job

What Accommodations Work on the Job?

For employees with psychiatric disabilities, reasonable accommodations might include adaptations in the way work is assigned and scheduled, the use of auxiliary equipment and support staff, and modifications to the physical workspace. You will need to negotiate, select, and arrange whatever accommodations you need by working closely with your supervisor and the human resources department. Here are some possible aids and services you may consider:

Restructuring jobs 
Having minor job duties eliminated -- for example, assigning "fill-in" duties to another employee -- frees you to focus on your primary responsibilities

Flexible scheduling 
Changing the start or end of the workday to accommodate side effects of medication, working part-time, taking more frequent breaks, taking time off for therapy appointments

Flexible leave 
Being able to use sick leave for mental health reasons or take an extended leave without pay due to hospitalization

Specialized equipment & assistive devices 
Receiving daily instructions via e-mail instead of verbally

Modifying work sites 
Installing wall partitions around workstation to minimize distractions

Providing a job coach or mentor 
Helps in arranging interviews, completing job applications, and providing support and training on the job

Changes in training 
Allowing extra time to learn job tasks

Note: The information contained in these pages is for educational purposes only, and is not legal advice. Individuals should contact the appropriate legal resources for specific legal advice regarding their particular situations.