Is there anyone else out there that has been denied employment by a cruise line post-contract signing for a mental health condition?
I’m an entertainer that was hired for a show with a very popular and international cruise line. The process is a lengthy (and expensive) one, and includes being cleared medically by a maritime certified facility.
I reported that I was medicated for Bipolar II on a drug classified as an anticonvulsant, as well as a history of depression and self harm. The medical facility retracted my signed contract for these reasons, citing the ILO-MLC 2006 Guidelines.
After appealing the decision with the cruise line directly, they denied me again and referenced these same guidelines. My appeal included letters from my current employer, psychiatrist, and therapist stating my stability and clearance for work. The cruise line also reasoned that my medication bars me from employment, stating the specific side effects for my medication which can include “loss of balance/coordination, blurred vision, drowsiness, dizziness, among other symptoms,” though I have never experienced any of these. I was also never given the opportunity to be evaluated by a private medical professional, which is stated as my right in the ILO-MLC 2006 Guidelines.
Any advice on what I can do? Anyone with a similar experience when trying to work at sea? Referrals for employment discrimination lawyers?