Managing a Health Condition at Work: Recognising the Challenges and Being an Ally

Workplaces are full of unseen battles. Many of us work alongside colleagues who are managing long-term health conditions, often without us realising. Chronic illness, disability, and fluctuating conditions can make the working day feel like an uphill struggle—one that is frequently navigated in silence.

As someone who has lived this reality, I know how exhausting it is to balance professional responsibilities while managing symptoms that don’t conveniently clock out at 5 pm. But I also know how much of a difference it makes when colleagues and employers understand and offer meaningful support.

The Hidden Struggles of Working with a Health Condition

One of the biggest challenges of managing a health condition at work is how unpredictable it can be. Some days, everything feels manageable; other days, brain fog, fatigue, or pain make even the simplest tasks overwhelming. Yet, from the outside, everything might look fine.

This invisibility can make it difficult for others to grasp the extent of the challenges. Well-meaning comments like “You look great today” or “You don’t seem unwell” can feel dismissive rather than encouraging. The truth is, many of us push through our symptoms because we feel we have no other choice.

Why Disclosure Feels Risky

Deciding whether to disclose a health condition at work is never simple. While some workplaces foster an open, supportive environment, others make disclosure feel risky. Will colleagues see you as unreliable? Will opportunities disappear? Will you be treated differently?

Many of us hesitate to speak up because we’ve seen what happens when others do. We’ve witnessed scepticism, unconscious bias, or even outright discrimination. And so, we manage as best we can, often at great personal cost. This is where allies can make a real difference.

How to Be an Ally at Work

Being an ally to someone with a health condition isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about small, everyday actions that foster inclusivity and understanding. Here’s how you can help:

1. Listen Without Judgment

If a colleague shares their health challenges, listen. Resist the urge to offer solutions or compare their experience to something you’ve been through. Just hearing and believing them can be incredibly powerful.

2. Challenge Workplace Stigma

Casual remarks about people ‘faking it’ or not pulling their weight contribute to a toxic work environment. Speak up when you hear them. Advocate for a culture that values people’s contributions without measuring them solely by presenteeism.

3. Support Flexible Working

Flexible working arrangements—whether remote work, adjusted hours, or regular breaks—can be life-changing for someone with a health condition. If you’re in a position to support these changes, do so. If not, be vocal about their importance.

4. Respect Boundaries

People managing health conditions often make difficult choices about how to spend their limited energy. If a colleague turns down social events or isn’t as chatty as usual, don’t take it personally. Recognise that they might be prioritising their health.

5. Ask How You Can Help

Sometimes, the best way to be supportive is simply to ask: “Is there anything I can do to make work easier for you?” Even if the answer is no, the offer alone can mean a lot.

Creating a Workplace Where Everyone Can Thrive

The reality is, many of us will experience a long-term health condition at some point in our lives. Creating a workplace culture that supports people with chronic illnesses isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s about shaping a work environment that benefits everyone.

If you’re an employer, take a proactive approach. Don’t wait for employees to ask for support—make it clear that adjustments are normal and encouraged. Train managers on how to have these conversations with empathy. And most importantly, listen to the people who live these experiences every day.

For those managing a health condition at work: you deserve support, respect, and the ability to work in a way that doesn’t compromise your health. And to those who want to be allies—your support, understanding, and advocacy can make all the difference.

Image Description: An AI-generated illustration of a modern, inclusive office environment. In the foreground, a professional using a wheelchair is working at their desk, engaged in conversation with a supportive colleague. The scene highlights workplace allyship and the importance of accessibility. The office includes subtle accommodations, such as an ergonomic workspace and an open, welcoming environment, representing the need for flexibility and inclusivity in the workplace. This image reflects the value of supporting colleagues with disabilities and fostering an accessible work culture.

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