Driving
Did you know that your mental health can impact your ability to drive? Mental health conditions can affect your concentration, coordination, and decision-making skills.
- Disclosure to DVLA : Certain mental health conditions, such as severe depressiondepression or bipolar disorder, must be reported to the DVLA. Failure to do so can result in fines and prosecution.
- Medical Assessments : You may be required to undergo medical assessments to determine your fitness to drive.
- Temporary Suspension : In some cases, your driving licence may be temporarily suspended until you are deemed fit to drive.
Lasting Power of Attorney
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf should you become unable to do so.
- Types of LPA : There are two types—Health and Welfare, and Property and Financial Affairs. You can choose to make one or both.
- Choosing an Attorney : It's crucial to select someone you trust implicitly.
- Legal Requirements: An LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian to be valid.
Employment
Your mental health can also have implications for your employment status and rights within the workplace.
- Discrimination : The Equality Act 2010 protects you from discrimination based on your mental health.
- Reasonable Adjustments : Employers are required to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate your mental health needs.
- Sick Leave : You are entitled to take sick leave for mental health reasons, just as you would for physical health.
Future Planning
Planning for the future involves more than just financial planning; it also includes preparing for potential health issues.
- Advance Directives : These allow you to outline your wishes for future medical treatment.
- Will and Testament : Ensuring you have a will can alleviate future stress for your loved ones.
- Emergency Contacts : Keep a list of emergency contacts and medical information easily accessible.