Work-life health balance
Most people have to deal with regular work-life balance. People with sickle cell who work have to deal with work-life-medical care balance. This means prioritizing your doctors’ appointments and healthy habits just as much as your work deadlines and responsibilities. It can feel like a lot to juggle, but staying as healthy as possible will help allow you to continue working.
You can work hard and take care of yourself
If and when you enter the workforce, it may be a good idea to communicate your sickle cell needs to your Human Resources Department so that they can understand your needs. You might not want to tell your employer about your sickle cell for fear of being discriminated against or not given the job in the first place. But communicating about your sickle cell might help you to plan collaboratively with your workplace to see how you can best be supported. If you are not sure how to start these conversations, look for guidance with the Sickle Cell Information Center. They have resources available to give to your employer.
You may want to talk to your workplace about the following:
- Flexible working hours (allowing working from home if possible and necessary)
- Part-time hours or job-share
- Well-heated working environment
- Access to water and bathroom breaks
- Being able to sit down when needed
- Allowed time off for medical appointments
- Elevator access