If you are dealing with a health impairment, there might come a time when work becomes a challenge. Recognize when that happens and start looking for workplace solutions and how to structure work so that it isn't a burden anymore.
In July 2024, there were 30.7 million Americans ages 16 to 75 who were dealing with a work-limiting health condition or disability, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Everyone wants to have work that's fulfilling, inspiring, and that provides financial stability. However, sometimes, due to health impairments, it becomes hard to work at a job, even if it's one of the best responsibilities you've ever had.
Tasks that you thought were routine or everyday ones can start feeling like a burden and almost impossible to complete. Work starts taking a lot out of you, and you feel like you can't take the fatigue, sensory challenge, and all of the other issues anymore.
Recognize When Work Is Becoming Unsustainable
One of the first steps is recognizing that something has changed. A person may notice that:
- Completing normal tasks takes significantly longer
- Recovery after work takes more time
- Attending a full schedule has become increasingly difficult
Frequent absences, difficulty concentrating, reduced stamina, or struggling with physical demands can also indicate that the current work arrangement may need to be reconsidered.
Acknowledging these challenges and understanding qualifying conditions does not mean giving up on a career. It can be the beginning of finding a more sustainable way to continue working.
Understand Your Workplace Options
Depending on the employer, job, and applicable laws, workplace accommodations may be available. Potential adjustments can include:
- Modified schedules
- Flexible working arrangements
- Changes to workstations
- Additional breaks
- Assistive technology
- Remote or hybrid work
- Modified duties
- Changes to how certain tasks are completed
Not every accommodation is appropriate for every situation. The most useful approach is usually to identify the specific barriers affecting work and consider practical solutions that address them.
Communication Can Be Difficult
Discussing health-related challenges with an employer or manager can feel uncomfortable.
Employees may worry about being judged, overlooked for opportunities, or perceived as less capable. However, avoiding the conversation entirely can make workplace difficulties harder to manage.
When appropriate, focusing on daily limitations and potential solutions can make the discussion more productive. Employees may also wish to consult human resources, occupational health professionals, unions where applicable, or qualified legal or employment advisers to understand their options.
Social Security disability claims can also be an option for those who qualify. Lawyers can help collect necessary medical evidence and more.
Consider How Work Is Structured
Sometimes the problem is not the job itself but the way work is organized. The following may create unnecessary barriers:
- Long commutes
- Extended meetings
- Repetitive tasks
- Unpredictable schedules
- Physically demanding responsibilities
Reorganizing responsibilities or changing how time is allocated may improve sustainability.
For example, completing demanding tasks during periods of higher energy and scheduling administrative work during lower-energy periods may help some workers manage their workload more effectively.
Technology Can Create Greater Accessibility
Technology has expanded workplace possibilities for people managing different types of impairments. These technologies can make certain tasks more accessible:
- Speech-to-text tools
- Screen readers
- Ergonomic equipment
- Communication platforms
- Automated scheduling systems
- Other assistive technologies
Remote work can also eliminate some physical barriers associated with commuting or workplace environments. However, working from home is not automatically the right solution for everyone, and technology should be selected according to individual needs.
Financial Planning Matters
When health challenges affect someone's ability to work, financial concerns can become an additional source of stress.
Reduced hours, career changes, unpaid leave, or an inability to continue working may affect household income. Reviewing the following can help create a clearer financial picture:
- Expenses
- Insurance coverage
- Workplace benefits
- Government programs
- Other potential sources of financial support
Because eligibility rules vary by location and circumstances, professional financial, benefits, or legal guidance may be appropriate when making significant decisions.
Consider A Gradual Transition
A person does not always have to choose between working full-time and leaving the workforce entirely. Depending on the circumstances, a gradual transition may be possible. The following can sometimes provide a middle ground:
- Reduced hours
- Part-time work
- Modified responsibilities
- Flexible scheduling
- A different role within the same organization
A gradual approach may allow someone to evaluate what is realistically sustainable before making a permanent career decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can You Protect Your Professional Identity When Dealing With A Health Impairment?
Health challenges can sometimes affect how people see themselves.
Someone who has always been highly independent or career-focused may struggle emotionally when familiar responsibilities become difficult. It is important to remember that professional value is not determined solely by productivity or the number of hours worked.
Skills, experience, creativity, judgment, relationships, and knowledge remain valuable even when work circumstances change. Just because you can't work in a traditional setting anymore doesn't mean that your skills aren't going to be useful to an organization.
When Do You Start Seeking Additional Support?
Persistent difficulty functioning at work should not necessarily be managed alone. In fact, too many people suffer alone for far too long, when they should have been reaching out not only to their workplace HR teams but also to other professionals.
Healthcare professionals can help address health-related concerns, while occupational specialists may provide guidance about workplace functioning and accommodations. The following may also provide useful support depending on the situation:
- Mental health professionals
- Financial advisers
- Benefits specialists
- Employment or legal professionals
Seeking assistance early can make it easier to identify realistic options. You are not alone in this journey to deal with health impairments.
Begin the Application Process for a Health Impairment Early
Don't wait until you are in dire financial straits to start thinking about getting help with a health impairment. Start thinking about getting professional outside support and workplace benefits as soon as possible.
There is help out there, and you would be remiss if you aren't taking advantage of those resources. They are there to help people like you.
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