Should I disclose my PND?

[LabelsMustFaceOut]

I'm due to return to work following maternity leave next month. Following the birth of DC2 I was diagnosed with acute PND, PTSD and an anxiety disorder. I was assessed at our local mental health hospital but thankfully never admitted. I was, however, placed under the care of the mental health crisis team and had daily visits at home from mental healthcare professionals and psychiatrists. This eventually turned into weekly from the community team. I am taking medications and receiving counselling.

Thankfully now six months later I'm well on the road to recovery. I'm wondering if I should disclose this information when I return to work. I'll have a return to work meeting in my first week. I'm a head of department responsible for almost 20 people. My school is cut-throat. You cannot show signs of weakness or vulnerability normally. But I've been through so much that I'm worried about coping when I return. We have no choice but for me to return full time.

Do I say anything? And hope for some support or understanding. Or do I keep quiet? Will disclosing this follow me forever and scupper chances for further promotions?

[kalidasa]

I was very unwell post-natally and did not disclose it formally at work (though one colleague whom I considered a friend knew), even though I went back to work early so was still being treated for quite a while. I found work a bit of a 'safe haven' though compared to mat leave/a small baby so it was actually an environment in which I felt more confident. Are there any specific things they could do to support you in a concrete way? If so then it might be worth mentioning it and asking for them. Alternatively, you might find being in an environment where people don't know and assume you are your 'old self' can actually be quite soothing.

[nostress]

I think you have to disclose otherwise they can sack you in the future.

Theres no shame!

[chilephilly]

You can't be sacked for anything just like that. There are very strict procedures to be followed, you know.

[nostress]

Its in my contract- non disclosure of healh problems. It was also mentioned in the notes of the application form.