The following checklist is based on evidence from our work with parents across the country who have successfully navigated disclosure at work. Note that all disclosure comes with an element of risk. It is highly recommended that employees document all communications regarding their disclosure to their employer or manager.
Pre Disclosure Assessment Checklist
Workplace Context
- The manager has shown empathy in past situations
- Company has existing family leave policies
- Flexible work arrangements are possible
- Mental health support is part of company culture
Your Immediate Need
- Time off for hospital/therapy appointments
- Flexible schedule for crisis management
- Remote work options when needed
- Coverage for urgent responsibilities
- Clear communication channels during absences
Initial Disclosure Conversation Template
Opening Statement
“[Manager’s name], I need to discuss something important regarding a family situation that requires some temporary workplace flexibility. Do you have time to talk privately for about 15 minutes?”
Core Message
“My child is currently experiencing a mental health challenge that requires immediate medical attention and ongoing care. I’m working with healthcare providers to establish a treatment plan, which will involve regular appointments [specify timeframe if known, e.g., ‘over the next few weeks’].”
Specific Needs Statement
“To manage this situation effectively, I need:
1. [X] hours/days off for immediate medical appointments
2. Flexibility to attend urgent care sessions when needed
3. The ability to work remotely on days with appointments
4. A plan for handling time-sensitive projects during my absences”
Proactive Solutions
“Here’s how I plan to manage my responsibilities:
I can schedule most appointments [early morning/late afternoon]
I’ll maintain a shared calendar with my coverage schedule.
[Colleague’s name] has agreed to be my backup for urgent matters
I’ll be fully reachable by phone/email between appointments.
I can make up hours by [specific plan]”
Professional Commitment
“I remain committed to my role and meeting our team’s objectives. I believe this temporary adjustment will allow me to both support my child and maintain my professional responsibilities effectively.”
Follow Up Email Template
Subject: Follow up to our conversation regarding temporary schedule adjustments
Dear [Manager’s name],
Thank you for taking the time to discuss my family situation today. As we discussed, I am managing my child’s mental health care needs and require some temporary workplace flexibility. I want to document our conversation and proposed plan:
Immediate Needs:
Time off needed: [specific dates/times]
Flexible hours: [specific arrangement]
Remote work: [specific days/situations]
My Commitment:
Regular updates on schedule changes
Advance notice when possible, for appointments
Completion of all key deliverables
Availability between appointments via [communication methods]
Coverage Plan:
[Task 1]: [Coverage person/plan]
[Task 2]: [Coverage person/plan]
Emergency contact: [Details]
I appreciate your understanding and support during this time. Please let me know if you need any additional information or have questions about this arrangement.
Best regards,
[Your name]
Ongoing Management Strategy
- Weekly Planning
- Review upcoming appointments and work commitments
- Update shared calendar with coverage needs
- Prepare status updates for key projects
- Schedule buffer time for unexpected situations
- Communication Protocol
- Regular checkins with manager (weekly/biweekly)
- Updates to key team members
- Clear away messages during appointments
- Emergency contact protocol
- Documentation
- Keep record of agreements made
- Track time off used
- Document coverage arrangements
- Save relevant emails/communications
- Boundaries
- Specify best contact times
- Set clear availability windows
- Establish urgent vs. nonurgent protocol
- Define what constitutes an emergency
- Tips for Success
Do:
- Be clear but concise about needs
- Focus on solutions and planning
- Document conversations and agreements
- Express appreciation for support
- Maintain professional boundaries
- Update regularly on any changes
Avoid:
- Oversharing medical details
- Making open ended requests
- Apologizing for needed accommodations
- Promising more than you can deliver
- Neglecting to follow up
- Adjusting the Plan
Monitor and Assess:
- Is the current arrangement working?
- Are workplace needs being met?
- Is the communication flow effective?
- Are boundaries being maintained?
- What adjustments are needed?
Plan Updates:
- Schedule regular review meetings
- Be proactive about changing needs
- Document any modifications
- Maintain open communication channels