Copping Discrimination :0(

[BP2PROFESSIONAL]

I don't like employment contracts!

Particularly ones that have drug and alcohol policies that require you to disclose when you take medications.

I did what I had to do legally and advised I took a Xanax for Anxiety when I had a sick day last week.

It's turned a simple sick day into my probation period being extended a month as "Although they are happy with my performance they are worried about my health!"

How do I say I'm a perfectly happy and healthy Bipolar person that's had one sick day in 3 months? Preferably without mentioning I'm bipolar as that tends to freak out employers and before I know it I'm being managed out, AGAIN!

F&rkers!

I've checked with fair work Australia and apparently being on probation can't be used as an exception on their rulings. But I don't want to have to put in a claim.

I personally think the employment contract is breaching my human rights re: having to disclose I'm bipolar. As the disclosure of the medication has raised unnecessary questions to a simple sick day and I can see myself having to mention I'm bipolar as this progresses to explain what's going on!

I'm more mad about the contract than what's happening at work.  It's that what has raised the issue.

They also do random drug and alcohol testing at work which I had to when I started working for them.  Which I passed, but even then I felt I was being forced to do something that would expose my bipolar.

Anyone know a good human rights lawyer that will work for nothing. As I need the cash for my supplements!

[BionicMike]

I've always thought an employer should only be able to test for non prescribed drugs/medicine.  The test should go to our doctor first and then the doctor will verify what may be there that isn't prescribed.

[lindahand]

I am sorry your probation got extended because of one sick day. That seems ridiculous. Keep notes so if they try to fire you, you can fight it. Try to remember the date that they told you they were happy with your work for example.

Do you work in a high risk industry? In Canada they can only do testing like that if you are someone like a pilot or working with super bugs at a lab or in the military. They can't just do it routinely. It must present a clear and present danger to society. Seems a lot like Big Brother to me. Ridiculous.

[looloo141]

HI, my goodness it stinks doesn't it? I am not sure about your rights and I know exactly what you mean about mentioning the word Bipolar..maybe coming clean would be the easiest option though especially with the drug testing! When I am trying to be honest without saying the word Bipolar, I say I have a mood disorder, it kind of softens the blow.
They can't ignore the evidence, you had 1 sick day in 3 months, that is great! You have your illness under control, I don't see their problem! They should be more worried about the people with a poor performance, lots of sick days, than someone who is diagnosed, receiving treatment and is open and honest!
Grrrr!
Sorry I can't be of much help!