“4 Ways to Support Employees with Bipolar Disorder,”

Thu 27 June 2024

Supporting Employees with Bipolar Disorder

Each year, more than 40 million adults globally are diagnosed with bipolar disorder, which is a chronic psychiatric condition characterized by periods of elevated moods/energy, as well as periods of low moods/energy. These individuals often exhibit heightened creativity, empathy, and resilience—but many face hurdles at work due to suboptimal job design, managerial practices, and organizational culture. Here are a few ways to help these employees thrive:

(1) Allow some autonomy in what they work on during any given day. 

Employees with bipolar disorder can particularly benefit by matching their daily tasks and goals to their current mood.

(2) Be flexible about hybrid work. 

Working in person can leverage the extra energy and sociability associated with having bipolar disorder. On the flip side, working remotely can be helpful when facing depressive symptoms.

(3) Consider a job’s impact on sleep.

 Although all humans need sleep, the neurological basis of bipolar disorder makes it particularly sensitive to deficits or disruptions to sleep routines. This means red-eye flights, short sprints to different time zones, and regular late night and early morning meetings can be uniquely detrimental.

( 4) Promote a culture of performance and compassion.

 Balance high expectations with empathy, allowing time off for health needs. Demonstrating care for all employees, including those with bipolar disorder, will help them achieve their goals.

This tip is adapted from “3 Ways to Support Employees with Bipolar Disorder,” by Constance Noonan Hadley et al.