Let’s face it. We all need to be productive, to give life meaning, feed our spirits, and maintain good health. True, we often define “productive” work as “paid” work, and we certainly need an income to live well. However, activities like volunteering, parenting, or pursuing a hobby bring meaning and value to our lives, although they do not come with a paycheck. Not only are these activities satisfying-- they can sometimes lead to employment.
We know that workers with epilepsy can face obstacles: negative and uninformed attitudes, outright discrimination, sometimes unnecessary driving requirements, and under-utilization of their skills. The unemployment rate of people with epilepsy is double that of the general population, and 40% are under-employed. Employers often worry about productivity, absenteeism, liability, job performance, reaction of customers or co-workers, accommodation costs and workplace safety.
Though many with epilepsy still face obstacles in seeking employment, attitudes are changing, and some people are finding creative alternatives to the traditional 9 to 5 job. If you believe in yourself and pursue your goals, success can be yours.
Your rights as a worker
If you have epilepsy, it is important to know your employment rights. Both the Canadian and provincial/territorial Human Rights Codes prohibit discrimination in employment because of disabilities such as epilepsy. This means that an employer cannot refuse to hire you, nor decide to fire you, simply because you have epilepsy.
Frequenlty Asked Questions:
What jobs can I not do because of my epilepsy?
People with epilepsy can work in almost any occupation. Restrictions are constantly being modified as medications improve the control of seizures. It is a good idea to find out if there are specific restrictions on the work you want to do.
Sometimes, safety concerns may limit the opportunities for people with epilepsy, depending on how well seizures are controlled. Safety maybe of primary concern in public transportation, trades involving dangerous machinery, police work, the military, or fire fighting.
Acknowledgements:
Editor: Sources for this issue of Epilepsy Matters include Epilepsy Ontario's "Epilepsy, Employment and Training" kit, as well as information provided by Epilepsy Associations across the country.
