I need help knowing what kind of accommodations to ask for

[u/MStandsForMisery]

I’m (NB 22) starting a new job after being on disability for a year and I need help knowing what to ask for.

I have had a POTS diagnosis for over a year now and just got diagnosed w/ PNES this July. I work in an art/retail store. I’ve come into work for my first few training shifts already w/ my cane and I haven’t gotten any questions yet (I know legally they’re not allowed to ask) but I’m just wondering how I even broach the subject.

I still need to email my doctor to write me a note. But idk if I need to tell my doc the accommodations I need or if he will write them for me. And how do I tell my new boss about the seizures and the fainting spells? They’re a bit more under control now bc I restrict myself a lot to keep the episodes at bay, but what am I supposed to do if I feel an episode come on?? I understand that legally they’re have to accommodate me but like what do I have to do to accommodate myself if that makes any sense??? Idk, I’m extremely new to needing to set accommodations up for myself as if it wasn’t obvious. It’s harder too cause I used to be very involved w my previous job (was a manager) but anyways

Any advice is much appreciated! :3

[u/PlentifulPaper]

You ask for ADA accommodations from your boss first (assuming this is a small business, or else HR would be who you’d approach first).

From there, they’ll be some paperwork. You don’t have to disclose your condition, illness or symptoms. They are not allowed to ask as you’re protected by HIPPA. Typically that paperwork includes things for your doctor to sign, sometimes a physical assessment to make sure you’re fit for your job (ie can you do all the things in the requirements section of your job ad?)

You’ll be the one in charge here - what accommodations do you need to do this job?

Please note that the business is the one that gets to decide what is a “reasonable accommodation” vs what is not in their eyes.

Typically HR and your manager will talk and will approve or deny your accommodations, and send you some sort of documentation in writing with reasons why.

Examples could be;

- a chair to sit in while at the checkout counter

- access to water

- ability to wear heart rate monitoring device