A rehabilitation counselor
for a state agency with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder has difficulty
completing paper work on time because he is continually checking and
rechecking it. He was encouraged by the JAN Consultant to make a checklist
for each report and to check off items as they are completed. Then
when he feels the urge to recheck the report he can do this quickly
by using his checklist. Another accommodation implemented was to allow
him time off the telephone each day to complete paperwork and file
information.
An administrative assistant
in a social service agency has bipolar disorder. Her duties include
typing, word processing, filing and answering the telephone. Her limitations
include difficulties with concentration and short-term memory. Her
employer provided her with assistance in organizing her work and a
dual headset
for her telephone that allowed her to listen to music when not talking
on the telephone. This accommodation minimized distractions, increased
concentration and relaxed the employee. Also, meetings were held with
the supervisor once a week to discuss workplace issues. These meetings
are recorded so she can remember issues that are discussed and she
is able to replay the information to improve her memory.
A repairperson who has
severe depression needed to attend periodic work related seminars.
The person had difficulty taking effective notes and paying attention
in the meetings. The accommodation implemented was to provide a coworker
with a notebook that made a carbon copy of each page written. At the
end of the session, they would tear out the second copy of the notes
and provide it to the repairperson. Since he was able to give full
attention to the meetings, he was able to retain more of the information.
An office manager who has
been treated for stress and depression was unable to meet crucial
deadlines. She had difficulty maintaining her concentration and staying
focused when trying to complete assignments. She discussed her performance
problems with her supervisor and accommodations were implemented that
allowed her to organize her time. By scheduling "off" times
during the week where she could work without interruptions. She was
also provided a flexible schedule that gave her more time for counseling
and exercise. The supervisor trained her coworkers on stress management
and provided information about the company employee assistance program.