[Libby Huffman]

If you're struggling with depression, anxiety or mental illness, you likely know the turmoil of keeping such a secret. Telling your co-workers or even your boss can be nerve wracking, but potentially helpful to your recovery. Explore the pros and cons of discussing your mental health in the workplace.

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[Patricia]

There are pros and cons to telling your boss or co-workers about something you are struggling with. They could "tag" you and then no matter what you do they will always think and sometimes say, well she does have this or that illness. I have a bad memory, not incapacitating, but because of my age it takes me a bit longer to "remember". I made the mistake of telling someone and now they notice every time I don't immediately remember something and make comments to me and also in front of co-workers, like "she won't remember" or "I know you won't remember, but...". I wish I hadn't said anything because I feel like I need to explain when these comments are made in front of other co-workers. I think it is probably safer to speak to your supervisor or HR Manager as they at least have a duty to keep things confidential.

[Phyllis]

I think it is a bad idea to confide that you have a mental illness to anyone you work with or for. When people think of mental illness they think of unstable and perhaps violent people. People who have chronic depression can be having a difficult time holding things together. Why add the stress of managment or coworkers waiting for you to go ballistic? If you are able to do your job, your private self is just that, private. I would recommend, to someone asking my opinion, to never tell.