Bipolar Disorder and Work Challenges Managing bipolar at work -- with the highs of mania and the lows of depression -- is no small feat. In a survey conducted by the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, almost nine out of every 10 people with bipolar disorder said the illness had affected their job performance.
People with bipolar disorder may encounter issues in the workplace. Symptoms may make it difficult to attend work; one study shows that people with bipolar miss nearly 19 work days per year, compared to individuals without the condition, who miss around 7 days per year.
On one hand, some research has shown that unemployment rates in people with bipolar disorder are much higher than in the general population, with around 40-60% of people with the condition being unemployed, often because they didn't do as well as expected at their jobs (this is called workplace under-performance1).
There is no one type of job that will suit everyone with bipolar disorder. Some people may find that they can excel in many roles. However, because sleep deprivation and stress can be symptom triggers, many individuals find that low stress, calm roles with daytime hours are more suitable.
A total of 9886 participants with bipolar disorder were included in the final analysis, of which 18.67% (n = 1846) were in employment and 81.32% (n = 8040) were in unemployment.
Dealing with the ups and downs of bipolar disorder can be difficult—and not just for the person with the illness. The moods and behaviors of a person with bipolar disorder affect everyone around—especially family members and close friends. It can put a strain on your relationship and disrupt all aspects of family life.
Many people with bipolar work best with a regular, stable routine that helps with mood balance. Experts recommend avoiding any shift work or jobs that disrupt a regular sleep pattern.
But, while living with bipolar disorder can present difficulties in working a steady job, many people with this condition enjoy successful careers. Whether you work with the public or in an office, collaborate with a team or work alone, managing symptoms of bipolar disorder may be the key to excelling professionally.
Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
There are a number of symptoms of bipolar that can make it hard for you to socialise or manage and maintain social relationships.
No two people with bipolar disorder share the same thoughts or experiences, but there are some common thought patterns among most folks who have it. This includes cyclical thinking, manic and/or depressive episodes, suicidal ideation, and psychosis.
Who is at risk of bipolar disorder? More than 10 million Americans have bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder affects men and women equally, as well as all races, ethnic groups, and socioeconomic classes. Although men and women appear to be equally affected by bipolar disorder, rapid cycling is seen more often in women.
Avoid alcohol and drugs.
They can affect how your medications work. They can also worsen bipolar disorder and trigger a mood episode. And they can make the condition harder to treat. So don't use them at all.
While bipolar disorder can't be cured, symptoms can be controlled with an effective treatment plan. Are you struggling with your mental health? Call us today to get help. Bipolar disorder may worsen with age or over time if the condition is left untreated.
My short answer is: Yes, a person who lives with bipolar disorder can certainly be truly happy. But I think I can understand the concerns behind the question. If you have experienced disruptive or dangerous episodes of mania, you may worry that feeling happy is just a first step toward another damaging episode.
Grandiosity and overconfidence. Easy tearfulness, frequent sadness. Needing little sleep to feel rested. Uncharacteristic impulsive behavior.
On the days when your symptoms peak, you may feel especially frustrated and overwhelmed. But you're not alone in these feelings, and you can learn to manage these symptoms.
Most studies with samples of people with established bipolar disorder suggest approximately 40-60% of people are in employment.
A “bipolar meltdown” is, much like “bipolar anger,” a very stigmatizing phrase, and not something that really exists. The phrase “bipolar meltdown” could refer to a bipolar person having a manic episode or being in a depressed state.
The life expectancy for someone with bipolar disorder is approximately 67 years old. A 2021 study researched the effect of bipolar disorder on longevity and found that: risk of death is 2.6 times greater than the general population. the average life span is between 8–12 years shorter than the general population.
There are exceptions to the rule, and if you're getting treatment for your illness and being open and honest with your spouse, your marriage has every chance of succeeding. According to a 2003 study, it is estimated that around 90% of marriages where one person has bipolar disorder end in divorce.