Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings attention to breast cancer, the importance of early detection, and support for individuals and families affected by the disease. It can also be an important reminder that health challenges do not exist separately from the other responsibilities in our lives, including work. Whether you are managing breast cancer, another chronic health condition, or supporting a loved one, balancing health needs with a professional career can be challenging. Health concerns can affect your ability to work, while workplace stress and demands can also affect your physical and emotional well-being. For individuals who choose or need to continue working for financial stability, health insurance, personal fulfillment, or other reasons, finding a sustainable balance may require setting boundaries, communicating your needs, and prioritizing your health.

Know Your Workplace Rights

Understanding your workplace rights can be an important first step. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may protect eligible employees with disabilities from discrimination and may require employers to provide reasonable accommodations that allow employees to perform the essential functions of their jobs. Depending on an employee’s needs and job responsibilities, accommodations might include changes to work schedules, periodic breaks, remote or hybrid work, leave, or adjustments to certain workplace tasks.

Employees may also have protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Eligible employees of covered employers may receive up to 12 workweeks of unpaid, job-protected leave during a 12-month period for qualifying reasons, including their own serious health condition or caring for certain family members with a serious health condition. Depending on medical necessity, FMLA leave may also be taken intermittently or through a reduced work schedule. Employees generally do not need to share every detail of their medical history when requesting workplace support. However, employers may request appropriate medical documentation when determining eligibility for certain accommodations or leave. Medical information obtained by employers is generally required to be kept confidential.

Prioritize Your Energy and Well-Being

Managing a health condition while working also means recognizing that your energy may look different from day to day. Rather than waiting until you are completely exhausted, consider ways to conserve energy throughout the workday. Small adjustments can make a difference. Taking brief, scheduled breaks, eating regularly, staying hydrated, attending medical appointments, and recognizing when your body needs rest can help prevent exhaustion. When possible, prioritize essential tasks during times when you typically have the most energy and communicate early when additional flexibility or support may be needed. Self-care does not always mean adding another activity to an already busy schedule. Sometimes, self-care means resting, asking for help, setting limits, saying no to additional responsibilities, or allowing yourself to temporarily adjust expectations while managing your health.

Leaning On Employers Can Help

Employers also play an important role in creating workplaces where employees feel supported while navigating health concerns. Flexible workplace policies, clear accommodation procedures, and open communication can make it easier for employees to seek support when needed. Managers and supervisors can help by approaching these conversations with empathy, maintaining appropriate confidentiality, respecting medical privacy, and connecting employees with available workplace resources. Employers can also benefit from training managers on how to respond appropriately when employees disclose health concerns or request accommodations. Creating a supportive workplace does not require knowing every detail about an employee’s health. It requires listening, respecting boundaries, understanding available resources, and working collaboratively to identify reasonable solutions.

You Don’t Have to Navigate it Alone

Balancing employment with an ongoing health condition can feel overwhelming, but support is available. If you are experiencing difficulty navigating health concerns in the workplace, consider reaching out to Capital EAP for additional support and resources. Employers and supervisors can also utilize EAP resources to learn more about supporting employees experiencing health-related challenges. Our intake team can be reached at 518-465-3813 for assistance in setting up an appointment.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, community members can also participate in the Making Strides of Albany event on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Washington Park Parade Grounds in Albany. Festivities begin at 10:00 a.m., with the walk stepping off at 12:00 p.m.

Learn more or register through the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides of Albany event page https://www.acscapitalregionevents.com/events/making-strides-albany/

By: Demetria Desir, MHC Intern