Mental health is health. But in many workplaces, employees still face stigma, harassment, or even termination because of mental health conditions. In North Carolina, this kind of treatment may be illegal—and grounds for legal action.
What the Law Says
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and North Carolina law, employers cannot:
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Fire or demote you due to a mental health diagnosis
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Refuse reasonable accommodations
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Harass you based on your condition
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Retaliate if you request time off for treatment
What Counts as a Mental Health Disability?
Conditions that may qualify include:
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Depression or anxiety
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PTSD
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Bipolar disorder
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Schizophrenia
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OCD
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Any condition that significantly impacts daily functioning
Examples of Illegal Discrimination
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A manager mocks or singles you out after learning about your condition
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You’re denied a leave of absence your doctor recommended
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You’re suddenly excluded from projects after disclosing mental health info
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You’re disciplined for needing flexibility to attend therapy
What Can You Recover?
If you’ve faced mental health discrimination, you may be entitled to:
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Back pay and lost wages
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Job reinstatement
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Emotional distress damages
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Legal costs
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Punitive damages in some cases
Why Burt’s Law, PLLC?
We protect the rights of North Carolina employees facing unfair treatment due to their mental health. You deserve dignity—and legal protection—in the workplace.
📞 Call (866) BURTS-LAW
🌐 Visit: www.burtslaw-nc.com
