Yes they do. The Equality Act 2010 prohibits discrimination against people with mental health issues in exactly the same way as it protects those with physical disabilities. In fact, the definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010 can include a wide range of mental health issues including debilitating conditions such as long-term depression, stress and anxiety issues. This means that your employer has a legal duty to make sure you're not discriminated against, harassed or victimised because of any mental health issues you may have. Your employer may also have a duty to make reasonable adjustments. The Equality Act 2010 has also been extended to cover direct discrimination and harassment suffered because of a disability of a person with whom you are associated, even if you're not yourself disabled. This would protect, for example, carers of disabled persons from detrimental treatment or comments made because of their association with a disabled person. The concept of 'Associative Discrimination' does not, however, extend to other types of disability discrimination such as the duty to make reasonable adjustments or discrimination arising from disability. Further, individuals perceived to be disabled even if they're not disabled, could also be covered by the Equality Act 2010 against act of direct discrimination and harassment. In perception cases, it may not be necessary for an individual to fulfil the statutory definition of a disability. If you've been dismissed from your job or discriminated against because of mental health issues, the Equality Act 2010, and our experienced and understanding team of solicitors, are both on your side. Call us on 0330 041 5869 or contact us and we'll call you.