The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to both physical and psychiatric disabilities; however, the statute as applied to physical disabilities tends to receive more attention. An estimated 61.5 million Americans have experienced a mental health impairment in a given year (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2013). This session will discuss the employment rights of persons with psychiatric disabilities under the ADA with emphasis on workplace accommodations. Topics will include: determining when a person with a psychiatric disability is qualified for a job; common workplace issues involving persons with psychiatric disabilities; and resources for both employers and employees.

Speakers:

Diego Demaya JD, Legal Specialist, Southwest ADA Center at ILRU