Question
In general, how long do you have to be free of depression before you can be considered to drive for a company? I do not take any medications for it and have not had any treatment since late 2000. Right now, I am in the "medical review" stage of the interview process.
Answer
A statement from yourphysician indicasting that he understands the job requirements and responsibilities of a commercial driver and that in his opinion you are safe to perform that job?
That should be all you need.
There are no specific regs on time limitations.
Keeping you safe, healthy and on the road.
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Answer
do you know how many of us are on anti deps well i can tell you alot they may not admit but its true...
Answer
There's NOTHING in the regs. that specifically states that you cannot drive while being treated for depression. However, IF you disclose to a company that you are being treated for depression, they can request a statement from your doctor that you are mentally and physically able to perform all of your duties without suffering any medication side effects....etc.
With many of the newer medications for depression/anxiety, the majority of people are able to perform their duties with no problem.
Personally, I have NEVER disclosed this information to an employer...or others..... and don't plan to in the future. SOME companies have a "won't hire" policy regarding the taking of antidepressants, but I believe that they're few and far between at this time. I think that you'll see it more with the bigger outfits.
It's totally up to YOU whether you want to disclose this information or not. It's privileged information between you and your doctor though. And remember, there is absolutely NOTHING to be ashamed about in having suffered with depression!
Good Luck!
Miss Mary
Answer
In the first part of the Medical Form it specifically asks if your are being threated for any nervous or mental conditions or have been in the past 5 years.
I sure hope you are answering honestly because if not and it is later found out, you can lose your job over it.
Keeping you safe, healthy and on the road.
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Answer
Sharon,
I'm not going to dicker with you on this one cause you and I just won't agree on it....LOL. I know how the applications read, but I also know that medical records are confidential.
These are my personal feelings and beliefs and nothing is going to change them. If I am being treated for a condition......any condition..... that can be successfully treated with medication without any side effects, then I feel that it is MY choice and decision whether or not to disclose that to an employer.
Do not misunderstand. I would not drive without disclosing a serious condition that could affect my driving such as a heart condition, diabetes, high blood pressure. But I'm not going to put depression into that category when there is STILL such a stigma attached to it and it can be used in a discriminatory way against someone. It's a personal choice and this is mine.
Ms. Mary
aka "Grammy" to Katelyn Elizabeth Lepard as of 2/21/02