Ptsd needing job accommodations any suggestions?

[Mojo1550]

Hi

I am actually a teacher and I do really well. I am mostly able to cope with things now but I still get triggered by harsh criticism. My principal has started picking on me and I am scared to death that I will get fired. I need work accommodations and a lot of help with better supervision from principal because I don't deserve to lose my job.

Thanks

 

[Cyberluddite]

PTSD is a recognized disability by the DSM, and therefore qualifies for legal protection under the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990).

There are certain federal requirements that you may need to follow, in the event your principal's pattern of behavior creates a hostile working environment (a violation of EOE and OSHA) resulting in unjustified termination. While many states allow employees to be fired for any reason, your employer cannot legally fire you if they abuse you; you would have to react or respond in such a way that it can present an immediate threat to the safety of others.

Bullying isn't just for schoolkids, adults are more experienced at it. This being said, it would be a good idea to work with your MHC on figuring out what to do in terms of documenting the abusive behavior, as well as finding ways to either deflect it or safely vent the stress in a productive manner. People don't attack PTSD survivors because we're weak, they attack us because of our proven strength in the face of adversity.

When you've survived the end of the world, there is no man left to fear. Your principal's criticisms are just the sweet, sweet nectar of recognition that you are the leader he will never be. In short, my best suggestion is to work with your MHC on ADA legal requirements, while practicing self-empowerment skills. Chances are, you're not his only victim... and bullies can't win against a united group of you.

Good luck, and Ad Victorum!

 

[NewBeginnings]

Hi

I am actually a teacher and I do really well. I am mostly able to cope with things now but I still get triggered...

Hi
PTSD is a recognized disability. I would make sure you are upfront with your employer that you have a disability and the type of accommodation you are requesting - such as: receiving feedback in a harsh, critical manner with voices raised, etc is triggering. You believe you are an excellent teacher and perform well but you are asking that when receiving feedback it is given "xyz" (maybe at end of day, in writing, with a co-worker, etc)

Then you are protected because you notified your employer of your disability and of the necessary reasonable accommodations-
this makes it really hard for you to be fired and if so you would have a strong case for wrongful termination (unless it were clearly misconduct i.e.: strolling in at 9am when school begins at 8, etc)

Good Luck!

 

[Friday]

You know how students with an IEP/504 are legally required to be not only allowed accommodations but facilitated in acquiring them, & using them, as well? (Yet often have to have an advocate intermediary between themselves & the district/school/unhappy teachers?). This is that learning curve. Just from the other side. Which is a word to the wise: You probably already know a few resources to turn to for at least recommendations in professionals to help you set this up. Use your contacts. Get some solid assistance in doing battle against dragons... At least while this is all new to you.

 

[mindys1550]

Its probably too late to get the accommodations. He had me into his office to write me up twice in a week. I am a teacher and the union rep is worthless. The principal makes up lies and adds bits of truth to it. I am going to try and go out of work on FLMA and find a job then quit. Cross your fingers that the plan works because I don't think that I can cope with going back into work. I am also going to file charges with the EEOC and see if that helps. I have some possible sources for legal assistance and I will use those too. For me, it's not just the damage that it is doing to me because I am tough and my husband is too and we will overcome this somehow. It is about all of us that should not have to go through these problems. We should not have to worry about being abused again. Plus, I am a special education teacher for students with autism. Many of them suffer from anxiety too and shouldn't have to suffer like I am right now because someone intimidates and scares them.

If anyone has great advice on how I can fight back, I am all ears because now that I have overcome the worst of my trauma and the PTSD is not a constant battle, I am ready to fight to help others became free and less scared. '

Mindy