When my work stress started exacerbating my bipolar, I needed to make big changes for mood stability and quality of life.
I have found that stress at work manifests in numerous ways, including physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. It took me a while to accept, but there is a definite link between the symptoms of bipolar disorder and the stressors of work life.
Since the pandemic, many of us continue to work remotely, which we may not have previously done. On top of this, we also juggle challenges at home. In light of work and home stress, we must recognize how our stability might be affected.
My Struggle With Stress on the Job With Bipolar
I currently work from home in a flexible environment — but that has not always been the case. I used to hold a 9-to-5 government job. I stayed in that position for years, but it was not always easy.
It seems “normal” for most people to wake up at the crack of dawn and then return home before dinner as it starts to get dark outside. But I struggled extensively over those years, trying to keep up. I also dealt with a difficult boss and a strict and unforgiving attendance review.
RELATED: 7 Ways to Manage Stress While Also Managing Bipolar
Bipolar is an episodic mental health condition, and it remains extremely difficult to adhere to a firm work schedule or an office culture that frowns on flexibility. I eventually learned that I require accommodation to thrive and be the stellar employee I knew I could be. And that my work environment was significantly and adversely impacting my mental health.
Work Managers Can Affect Your Mental Health, For Better or Worse
Over the years, I had two types of bosses: Those who were extremely amazing, caring, and understanding and who believed in my abilities — and those who left me to sit in a cubicle in the corner, collecting dust.
In one position, I was ignored for the better part of a year, which I believe contributed to my mental breakdown. I am a very capable worker, but I felt stigmatized by my manager.
Between this and being put under the microscope during a very grim attendance review, I was lucky even to remain employed. My depression increased, as did my personal and private struggle with psychosis. The mental anguish relentlessly affected my ability to function.
I decided to embrace the government’s extended health plan and took a six-month leave, during which I was paid the majority of my salary. That was the best decision that I had ever made during my working life. It allowed me the time to get my meds right, obtain optimal mental health, and realize that much of my happiness hinges on my career.
Eventually, I quit my job and invested time in building a new position as a charity president. The transition took some time, but the decision brought me much more joy and hope. Taking time off — and making this transition — remain some of the best choices that I have made in my entire life.
5 Tips for a Mentally Healthy Work-Life While Managing Bipolar
Over the years, I have come to a number of insights that have brought harmony into my work life:
- Tell your boss about your mental health condition, or find a new job where you feel comfortable sharing. Do you really want to work for someone who does not provide you with understanding and accommodation for your mental health? I gather not. Do not work for anyone who is stigmatizing; speaking your truth is a surefire way to find out if someone is biased.
- Be a mental health advocate in the workplace. There are many amazing workplace and professional development opportunities, events, or ways to disseminate information among coworkers.
- Ensure that your physical work environment suits your mental health needs. If you are an extrovert who loves being outside and having numerous meaningful conversations throughout the day, then it’s best not to work in a cubicle-like setting like I once did.
- Work only as much as you can, so perhaps work 30 hours a week instead of 40 hours for the time being. Lean on your partner, if you have one, who may be able to work increased hours for a temporary amount of time.
- Do what you love. Always. (This is actually number one.)
I understand that there are barriers and reasons why many of us stay in the same mentally draining jobs. I empathize with familial obligations, financial debt, car payments, increasing rental costs, etc. It never ends, and I know this.
However, if we’re in an employment situation that negatively affects our mental health, then it will only bring detriment to all other areas of our lives.
RELATED: How Coping With Everyday Stress Can Teach Us Bipolar Management Skills
Stress is a common trigger for mood disturbances, so it’s very important to recognize the impacts of our work environment and how best to empower ourselves to make the most mentally healthy choices possible.
There is rarely a “perfect” job, but we have the agency to choose our life’s path. I recommend you go where you are appreciated, accommodated, supported, and empowered.
UPDATED: Originally posted August 19, 2020