Bipolar disorder involves many symptoms that can have an impact on your work life. Depending on what kind of symptoms you are suffering and what type of bipolar disorder you are dealing with, you may have difficulty maintaining your daily routine.
There are three types of bipolar disorder. They are referred to by their symptoms including manic symptoms, depressive symptoms, or a mix of the two referred to as dysphoric mania. Depending on how symptoms affect you specifically will give you a better understanding of how to cope while at work.
Here are some tips for managing a bipolar disorder and a job:
- Depressive symptoms can make you feel like you don't even want to get out of bed for work. You need to work on motivation techniques to see the positive in going to work, earning an income, and not being alone while in your depressive state.
- Manic symptoms also require focus and creating routines to keep stress at a minimum. You may need to take small breaks more often to give yourself time to recover from the daily work responsibilities.
- Treatment is necessary for those dealing with bipolar disorders. Following up regularly with your physician and discussing triggers at work that affect your health is a good way to keep your health in check while being able to maintain your job.
- Medication is available to assist with the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Medication should only be taken under a doctor's care and proper dosing needs to be followed or symptoms may get worse.
You are not required to divulge such personal information to your employer and the decision to do so is yours exclusively. It can help to gain a network of support at your work environment when experiencing episodes of bipolar disorder. If your symptoms put you or co-workers at risk in your particular job tasks, it may be necessary to work with your treating physician to find an alternative position.