Is it appropriate to tell an employee (in particular a supervisor) who is dealing with depression that he can't discuss it in the workplace and should simply say he has to miss work due to "health issues"? Other employees/supervisors can discuss their illnesses if they are comfortable sharing. An employee/supervisor with diabetes can discuss the need for insulin or dialysis. An employee/supervisor with cancer can explain they'll be missing work due to intensive chemotherapy. An employee/supervisor going through relationship issues or child issues can explain that they have to leave early for therapy for themselves or their children.  So is it then acceptable to tell an employee who has shared that his depression has worsened and he's looking into a more intensive treatment program that he can't discuss this at work and that it undermines his position if he does, without also limiting other employees/supervisors?