Does Emirates Airline Cancel an Employment Offer Because of Anxiety?
To be honest, I'm not sure, but anxiety disorder is the most common mental health problem. There are different types of anxiety disorders, and many people suffer from them without even knowing it. People with anxiety disorders often function better in jobs that require a high level of focus. However, as I mentioned, there are different types of anxiety disorders. Some may prefer to work alone rather than in a group, which is a minority case.
Based on the position, some people with anxiety might perform better than those without it. Despite this, many major companies, including Emirates Airline, have strict policies when it comes to mental health issues in the workplace. If you declare even a minor health or mental health issue, you might be terminated or rejected. It doesn't matter if the issue is anxiety, sleeping problems, or any other condition.
Case Studies: Emirates Airline and Mental Health Discrimination
Interestingly, Mental Health policies in Europe and the Middle East differ significantly. In Europe, companies are prohibited from discriminating based on mental health issues. However, in the Middle East, including UAE, mental health policies are less protective. Whether you have recovered from a mental health problem or are currently experiencing it, companies in the UAE often reject candidates.
For example, I knew a girl who flew as cabin crew for Emirates and had depression, which was under control with medication. She worked for 10 years before resigning. Another girl had an eating disorder as a teenager but was completely healthy as an adult. She declared her previous medical history and got rejected immediately, despite being fully recovered.
These examples show that regardless of whether you had a mental health issue before or currently suffer from one, you may still be rejected by Emirates or any other company in the UAE. This policy applies to all roles, from low-level positions to top management.
Impact of Mental Health on Safety-Critical Roles
Companies like Emirates, especially those with safety-critical roles, are concerned about the implications of mental health issues. Imagine a situation where someone with hidden mental health issues is under stress, and this issue flares up, leading to catastrophic outcomes. For example, pilots with undisclosed mental health issues are known to be involved in serious incidents. However, it's also important to understand why companies discriminate this way. What if someone had a condition in the past that has been fully managed and is now non-inhibitive to their job performance?
Many companies worldwide are legally bound not to discriminate based on minor health or mental health issues. However, the laws in the Middle East are different. Companies in this region often view mental health histories as significant issues, regardless of whether the condition is managed or cured.
The Double-Edged Sword of Mental Health Policies: Perspective and Research
The issue of mental health in the workplace is a double-edged sword. On one hand, companies have a responsibility to ensure the safety and security of their employees and passengers. On the other hand, they should not discriminate against candidates with a history of mental health issues that have been managed successfully. It's a 50-50 topic, and opinions are often divided.
The existence of resources such as articles can provide insightful perspectives on this subject. One article notes that depression can be managed in many cases, but the situation can vary widely. Some people can maintain control with medication, while others might not. Companies must strike a balance between safety and fairness.
In conclusion, while employment offers can be revoked due to mental health issues, it's crucial to strike a balance between safety and embracing the diverse needs of the workforce. As the world continues to recognize mental health as a significant issue, it's essential for companies to adopt more inclusive policies.