Disclosing ASD/ADHD at work? Do I have to?

[SirBlobby]

Just that really, been offered a new role today and unsure whether I need to disclose ADHD or ASD. I am not diagnosed just been referred at this stage.

Do I have to disclose it on their medical form? I have worked since 18 years old, never any issues or complaints. No one would suspect this of me. I do not consider myself 'disabled/mentally incapacitated' (this is the wording on the form!) or need adjustments

No, of course not.
Well, not if you do not want / expect adjustments to be made for you.

It is your choice. It is something you can disclose at a later stage should you find yourself in a situation where you do need adjustments to be made.

You mention you are still awaiting diagnosis - when you are formally diagnosed, your report might suggest workplace adjustments - some that you mightn't have thought of yourself, because we can so get used to coping with things, we don't consider how they might be alleviated - and this might make the decision easier for you.

If, in the future, you are challenged about a 'behaviour' that is related to your neurodivergence (this has happened to me at work) then disclosing can afford you support from your employer rather than it being seen purely as a performance type issue.

Thank you both, this is incredibly helpful.
I had been more worried that I would be in trouble for not disclosing.
Your answers and some further research indicates that I don't have to unless I feel I need support/adjustments.

You don’t have to!

I do because I need reasonable adjustments in order to succeed in the job and it helps people to understand me. I also find it a good test of the company culture to see how they respond!

but it’s a personal choice based on your own circumstances!

I have only disclosed my autism to line managers I have had, just so they have an awareness in case for whatever reason I need to request reasonable adjustments (I haven’t so far). One of my colleagues (who is a good friend) also knows, but I didn’t tell her until 2 years after my diagnosis (wasn’t ready before that). It’s your information to share with who wish.

I have recently 'come out' to my boss at work. I did it proactively, rather than waiting until I have difficulties as I wanted to be up front (ASD obsession with transparency!). She was great about it, and I am going to seek an occupational health assessment to see if there are any adjustments that I need.

Each workplace is different though. In a way, I was glad I didn't disclose immediately as I was able to establish myself a bit first so my boss could understand my strengths rather than worrying about being 'a problem'.

How long will it take to get your diagnosis do you think? Might it be easiest to wait until you have some concrete answers and then disclose (if you want to of course)?