Managing Bipolar Disorder at the Workplace | Solh Wellness

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterised by extreme mood swings between manic episodes of high energy, enthusiasm, and euphoria and depressive episodes of sadness, hopelessness, and despair. These episodes can vary in duration and intensity and significantly impact a person's daily functioning.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder symptoms include increased activity levels, racing thoughts, decreased need for sleep, and impulsive behavior.

There are 3 types of disorders:

• Bipolar I - is marked by at least one manic episode that lasts for a week or more.

• Bipolar II - includes at least one hypomanic episode & one depressive episode.

• Cyclothymic disorder is a milder form of bipolar disorder characterised by periods of hypomania and depression lasting at least two years.

Bipolar Disorder in the Workplace 

Bipolar Disorder and Job Performance:

People with bipolar disorder often face unique challenges in the workplace.

1. Stressful work environments and unpredictable challenges can significantly impact their mental health.

2. Irregular or extended work hours can also disrupt their stability and job performance, while shift work or frequent sleep disruptions can disrupt their mood patterns.

3. Full-time work is too demanding for a person going through this disorder to manage, mainly when dealing with the highs of mania or the lows of depression.

4. Boundaries and stress-management techniques are two key coping mechanisms and management strategies for bipolar disorder symptoms in the workplace. Working with a mental health professional to develop a plan for managing symptoms while on the job may also be helpful.

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Challenges Faced by Employers and Colleagues: 

A person who has Bipolar disorder has difficulties fitting into different workplace situations.

1. Criticism from a colleague or subordinate due to professional detachment or moodiness can trigger feelings of abandonment or rejection, leading to inappropriate anger, intense emotions, self-harm, or other impulsive behaviours.

2. Emotional reactivity, individuals with bipolar disorder may tend to see people as all-good or all-bad, using this coping mechanism to avoid abandonment or rejection.

Helping Employees with Bipolar Disorder:

1. Prioritize: In order to maintain a stable workplace, employers must place a high priority on providing employees with bipolar disorder with as much consistency as possible.

2. Positive Workplace Culture: One way to foster a positive workplace culture is to value each employee's individual traits and personalities as potential assets. Instead of highlighting particular behaviors, it's critical to concentrate on what is expected of all staff members.

3. Support: In order to ensure that employees with bipolar disorder succeed at work, it is important to be aware of the subtle signs and to offer them support and resources. Ensuring that the workplace is inclusive, supportive, and understanding for all employees is crucial.

Treatment/ Therapy for Bipolar Disorder:

Therapy is an essential part of treating bipolar disorder.

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: Bipolar disorder is frequently treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to teach coping mechanisms, recognise triggers, and control symptoms. Additionally, CBT can aid people in developing better communication and self-esteem, which can be especially beneficial for those who experience depressive episodes.

• Family-Centered Therapy: Bipolar disorder sufferers may also benefit from family-centered therapy because it fosters better intergenerational understanding and communication.

• Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) focuses on establishing a routine and managing social relationships, which can help stabilise mood and prevent relapse.

• Medication management is often necessary for treating bipolar disorder. An Amalgamation of therapy and medication can help individuals with bipolar disorder achieve long-term stability and improve their quality of life. Working with a mental health professional to develop an individualised treatment plan that addresses specific needs and goals is essential.

Conclusion

It is necessary for people who are suffering from bipolar disorder to learn how to cope with workplace stress and practise stress management at work. But it is more important that the stigma around mental health should be removed so that people suffering from it don't have a problem expressing themselves.

Get in touch with Solh Wellness if you are someone who has bipolar disorder. At Solh, we provide personalised mental health solutions at affordable rates with easy access to individuals. Make a move towards bettering your life and your mental health. Download the Solh Wellness App now!