Tips for Managing Bipolar Disorder at Work
Tips for Managing Bipolar Disorder at Work
Develop team skills. It helps to accept that both you and others have limitations and that conflict is a natural part of working with others. It’s how you manage these conflicts that can make the difference. Deal with problems as they happen, rather than letting them build up. But focus on the problem, rather than pointing fingers at the person. At the same time, stay open to others’ ideas and try not to take constructive criticism personally.
Make connections with people and purpose. It may help you to remember that you are not defined by your illness and your work is not your whole life. Spending time with family and friends, planning fun get-togethers, volunteering with a charity -- all of these may help you find purpose. Also, have a support system lined up -- for good times and bad. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance can help you find a local support group.
Making job changes with bipolar disorder
Are you looking for your first job or needing to find a new one? If so, it will help to assess your skills, qualities, and life experiences. Make a list of what you bring to the table.
Or, perhaps you need to make changes at your present job or are returning to work after being away. Think about what you really need at work:
Asking questions like these may help you get clear about producing the best work environment for you. As you probably know, many people with bipolar disorder struggle with impulsivity. So whatever you do, take your time to make big job changes. Talk them over with family, health care providers, and your therapist.
Also, be aware of the importance of regular and predictable sleep times for managing bipolar disorder, and if your job requires shift work, speak with your boss or supervisor about making any accommodations in your schedule that may be necessary for properly managing your condition
In this article
- How Bipolar Disorder Can Affect Job Performance
- Should You Be Open at Work About Your Bipolar Disorder?
- Bipolar Disorder and Your Work Schedule
- Other Tips for Managing Bipolar Disorder at Work
- How the Law Protects Those With Bipolar Disorder at Work
- If You Need to Take Time Off Work Due to Bipolar Disorder
Other Tips for Managing Bipolar Disorder at Work continued...
Develop team skills. It helps to accept that both you and others have limitations and that conflict is a natural part of working with others. It’s how you manage these conflicts that can make the difference. Deal with problems as they happen, rather than letting them build up. But focus on the problem, rather than pointing fingers at the person. At the same time, stay open to others’ ideas and try not to take constructive criticism personally.
Make connections with people and purpose. It may help you to remember that you are not defined by your illness and your work is not your whole life. Spending time with family and friends, planning fun get-togethers, volunteering with a charity -- all of these may help you find purpose. Also, have a support system lined up -- for good times and bad. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance can help you find a local support group.
Making job changes with bipolar disorder
Are you looking for your first job or needing to find a new one? If so, it will help to assess your skills, qualities, and life experiences. Make a list of what you bring to the table.
Or, perhaps you need to make changes at your present job or are returning to work after being away. Think about what you really need at work:
- Can you work better alone than with a large group?
- Do you need clear direction from others, rather than being self-directed?
- Do you need more breaks?
- What time of day are you most productive?
- Do you need a different kind of job than you have currently or have had in the past?
Asking questions like these may help you get clear about producing the best work environment for you. As you probably know, many people with bipolar disorder struggle with impulsivity. So whatever you do, take your time to make big job changes. Talk them over with family, health care providers, and your therapist.
Also, be aware of the importance of regular and predictable sleep times for managing bipolar disorder, and if your job requires shift work, speak with your boss or supervisor about making any accommodations in your schedule that may be necessary for properly managing your condition
Source...