Complete Health History Example
Would having a history of minor depression stop you from being able to work with children?
Say for example you were applying for a Post grad in primary teaching in and you have a history of minor depression. You have never been off work due to this however, it stopped you from completing your degree in the usual 3/4 years (UK). You have a degree but do you have to explain why it took you longer? I am very aware of the stigma attached to mental health issues esp. in employment and of course children’s safety is paramount. In this instance, should a minor mental health issue be disclosed? When should it be disclosed? I would be especially interested to hear from someone who works in the education field. But all answers welcome!
I am not a teacher but I do work with children as a children’s library assistant. I also suffered from depression for quite a number of years.
I don’t think that your depression will in anyway affect your career in teaching, if anything I feel that overcoming these type of difficulties can only make you a stronger person.
As for disclosing your medical history only do so when they ask for it. Most councils do ask that you complete a medical questionnaire when you either apply for a post or are accepted for a post. Don’t try to hide anything, but don’t make a big deal out of it either, for example don’t go in to an interview shouting “I have suffered from depression!!!!”
I disclosed my history of depression on my questionnaire and they didn’t even get back to me to ask any ‘additional questions’.
If in an interview they do ask why it took you longer to complete your degree than usual just tell that you had health problems or personal problems and let it go at that.
history demolished: day 1, the beginning