Workplace narratives of South African employees with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Background: Workplace inclusion for employees with chronic conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) remains a challenge because of the episodic and invisible nature of symptoms, leading to stigma, disclosure dilemmas and inadequate accommodations. Traditional approaches to disability inclusion often fail to address the lived realities of employees with MS, necessitating a deeper exploration of how individuals and organisations construct meaning around disability and inclusion.
Objectives: This study explores how employees with MS experience workplace inclusion, self-management and disclosure drawing on sensemaking theory and the Social Model of Disability. The study also employs a reflexive approach, centring the voices of employees to generate actionable insights for employers and disability advocates.
Method: An exploratory qualitative research design was adopted involving semi-structured interviews with 13 employees diagnosed with MS in South Africa. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns related to workplace adaptability, disclosure and support structures. Researcher reflexivity was incorporated to acknowledge positionality and enhance the study’s depth.
Results: Workplace adaptability, including flexible work arrangements and empathetic leadership, play a critical role in ensuring inclusion for individuals with MS in the work environment. However, disclosure remains a complex decision influenced by stigma and workplace culture. Psychological safety and proactive organisational sensemaking significantly impact employees’ experiences.
Conclusion: For meaningful workplace inclusion, organisations must move beyond compliance-driven policies and foster an environment where employees with MS feel valued and supported.
Contribution: By integrating reflexivity, sensemaking theory and the Social Model of Disability, this study offers valuable contributions to the discourse on disability inclusion.