Reduce the Stigma of Disability in the Workplace

In October, we honor National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) as we recognize the vital role people with disabilities play in making our workforce diverse and inclusive. This year’s theme for NDEAM is “Disability: Part of the Equity Equation.”  

In the United States, 61 million adults or 26% of the total population live with a disability. Many disabilities are invisible and only by speaking up, reaching out and providing resources can we ensure equity in the workplace and support whole-person health.  

Humana’s Disability Network Resource Group, called ACCESS NRG, is committed to advocating for the inclusiveness of those impacted by disabilities within Humana and the members we serve. We asked Seamus O’Connor, Co-President of ACCESS NRG, to discuss mental health issues that often effect individuals impacted by a disability. 

“We recently had a survey of our membership group and there are so many of our associates who are afraid to disclose that they have a disability associated with their mental health. And you know, that makes me wonder, how are we supporting each other? 

Having a mental illness is not something to be ashamed of. It’s something that is a part of us and, you know, we can work each day to manage things. We can work each day to seek support. We can work each day to get to know and understand how our mind is working in the moment.” 

Hear more from Seamus as he emphasizes that “we need to improve access to support and reduce stigma” of disability in the workplace.

To learn more about Humana’s inclusion and diversity efforts, please visit Inclusion and Diversity | Humana.