Is it better to identify that we have disabilities or should we be checking the block I do not wish to answer?

SFC Ron Chelsy — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 22:37:34 -0400

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2015 10:47 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 22:47:07 -0400

I would say only mention it if it hinders the possible jobs you can do with in the organization.

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Sep 4 at 2015 2:04 AM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Fri, 04 Sep 2015 02:04:59 -0400

Identify it, as if something goes wrong, and it pertains to a disability you did not disclose, the repercussions could be quite unfavorable for you on various levels... This is one I have seen actually happen, so if you have it, then list it. You may be hurting yourself on a large scale by not doing so...

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Sep 4 at 2015 8:43 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Fri, 04 Sep 2015 08:43:54 -0400

I would identify it right from the start. While I do not want my employer treating me differently, I feel it is only fair that they know what my disabilities are and how they could impact things. I think hiding such things from an employer is putting yourself behind the eight ball. You don't have to give them a lot of detail if you don't want to but at least tell them if you have some sort of disability.

Response by SGT David T. made Sep 4 at 2015 11:44 AM

SGT David T. — Fri, 04 Sep 2015 11:44:22 -0400

It depends. Of the disability is something you need a reasonable accommodation for it is good to be up front about it. If it is something that you do not need anything from your employer for then no need to mention it.

Response by SSG John Erny made Sep 4 at 2015 11:56 AM

SSG John Erny — Fri, 04 Sep 2015 11:56:25 -0400

If the Answer is Yes I have PTSD some may very well not want to tell anyone about it. There is a stigma about such things. The lay person will just say he or she is Crazy or he or she is a Crazy Vet and therefore dangerous. Then there are those who hate our uniform and will use anything they can to attack those who serve or have served.
I walked in to a McDonalds in uniform and ordered breakfast one day and the young man in his late teens or early 20's glared at me, he also happened to look middle Eastern. Later on I went to the same McDonalds and he was now a manager, I was in civilian clothes but he remembered be and gave me the same I hate you with every fiber of my being look. I doubt that if a veteran tried to get job with him as the manger they would have a chance in hell. So listing your disabilities could hurt your chances of employment in some cases.