Reader situation
You are dealing with something personal, such as a health issue, a family crisis or a recovery, and you are wondering whether to tell your manager, a colleague or your Circle. Sharing might bring support. It might also bring gossip, awkwardness or details you cannot take back.
Central idea
Sharing can help you get support, but the details should serve your purpose and your comfort. Decide what the other person needs to know, and check the limits of privacy before you disclose anything.
Practical steps
- Clarify your purpose. Ask what you want from sharing: flexibility, understanding, a specific kind of help.
- Choose the recipient. Pick the person who can actually provide that, such as a manager, HR or a trusted colleague.
- Check privacy limits. Ask how the information will be handled and who else might be told.
- Decide the level of detail. Share only what is needed for the support you want. “I have a health matter that needs regular appointments” is often enough.
- Review after sharing. Notice how it went and whether you want to share more or less in future.
Worked example
Fictional example
The people and details are invented to illustrate an approach. It reports no outcomes.
Gabriel is managing a health condition that needs weekly appointments. He wants flexibility, not sympathy. He asks HR how health information is handled, then tells his manager: “I have a medical matter that needs a two-hour appointment each Thursday morning. I’ll make up the time.” He does not mention it in his Circle.
Companion tool: Sharing statement
Boundaries
- Confidentiality is not guaranteed in Collasia Circles, workplaces or groups.
- You are not required to share personal health details to request reasonable support; processes vary by employer and location.
- Never share someone else’s personal information without their consent.
Where to find support
If you are thinking about harming yourself, or someone else is in danger, call or text 988 in the US, or call 911 or your local emergency number.
For non-urgent support, start with your doctor or a licensed mental-health professional. In the US, SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-4357, offers free, confidential referral 24 hours a day.
Outside the US, contact your local emergency number, your doctor or a national helpline in your country.
Sources consulted: US Department of Labor, Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit; WHO, Mental health at work; NIMH, Caring for Your Mental Health.
Member action
Prepare a short statement focused on the support you need.
Discussion prompt
What helps people feel safe sharing what they need at work?
