Not long ago in Canada, people with epilepsy were thought to be mentally ill and were considered unemployable. Denied many basic legal rights, they had no choice but to live marginalized lives. Polls conducted periodically over the past 50 years indicate a gradual improvement of attitude by the general population towards people with epilepsy.
Experience has shown that people with epilepsy have fewer seizures if they lead normal active lives. This means that they should be encouraged to find jobs, either full or part-time. People with any disability are now protected under amendments of the Human Rights Code. However, some jobs, because of the nature of technical equipment or machinery, may not be recommended for a person with epilepsy. It is therefore most important for a young adult to work with the school guidance department to establish appropriate career goals.
Epilepsy & the Employer
* How would you respond to an employment application from someone with epilepsy?
If you are truly open-minded, you won't reject anyone for that reason. Rather, if the person is qualified and suitable for the job, you will make enquiries about the degree of their health condition.
* Is it of the mild variety with no major seizures? If it is more severe, is it under control with anticonvulsant drugs?
If the answer to either of these questions is "yes," there's no reason not to hire that person.
In fact, there are some very good reasons to make a positive hiring decision. Studies show that, on average,
- people with epilepsy tend to work somewhat more conscientiously than others, to prove themselves;
- they tend to work more carefully and have fewer accidents;
- and they tend to have more loyalty to their employers, missing fewer days of work.
The next time someone with epilepsy applies for a job with your company, remember these facts. If the person is qualified, the person should be hired. Give them the opportunity they deserve to be constructive, useful, self- supporting members of society.
Chances are, you'll gain an industrious employee who will make a real contribution to your company's success.
The more you know about epilepsy, the less frightening it is.