Disclosure Impact of Mental Health Conditions in the Workplace: A Scoping Review and a Thematic Analysis.

Abstract

Objective: Disclosing one's mental health conditions in the workplace is essential for accessing accommodations, but it can also bring negative consequences. This scoping review aims at collecting positive and negative impacts of disclosing mental health conditions in the workplace, with the hope of better supporting employees and organizations facing mental health disclosure at work.

Method: We conducted a synthesis of studies published between March 2000 and February 2025. Selected articles needed to address disclosure and mental health conditions in the workplace, from the perspective of employees, managers or organizations. Study biases were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Comparison. Articles were reviewed following principles of thematic analysis.

Results: The 71 included studies reflect the range of impacts of mental health conditions disclosure. In total, 5 overarching themes and 12 themes were generated for the positive outcomes, whereas 6 overarching themes and 19 themes were identified for the negative outcomes. Those themes reflected both individual and organizational perspectives. Positive responses include receiving accommodations, advocacy engagement, improvement in self-image, and better relationships within the work environment. Negative repercussions include unmet needs, refusal of assistance, diminished self-perception, regret over disclosure, and negative/discriminatory behavior from colleagues or managers, particularly in highly stereotyped jobs (e.g., Law enforcement).

Conclusion: The scoping review highlights the repercussions of disclosing mental health conditions in the workplace and their specific implications for organizations, managers and employees. Recommendations for improving the impact of mental health conditions disclosure in the workplace are proposed.