What is bipolar and how can you support someone with bipolar in your workplace?

World Bipolar Day is recognised each year on 30 March which was the birthday of Vincent Van Gogh, who was diagnosed with bipolar after he died.  

The idea of World Bipolar Day is to highlight bipolar and educate people on the disease.  

Around 1 in every 100 people will be diagnosed with bipolar disorder in their life, making it a common mental health illness. It can occur at any age but most commonly develops between the ages of 15 and 19 and any gender or background is equally as likely to develop bipolar disorder.  

Supporting someone with bipolar disorder in the workplace requires understanding, empathy, and appropriate accommodations. Here are some ways you can support them: 

  • Education Learn about bipolar disorder to understand its symptoms, challenges, and treatment options.  
  • Communication: Encourage open communication with your colleague. Let them know that you are available to listen without judgement if they need to talk about their condition or any difficulties they may be experiencing. 
  • Respect Privacy: Respect your colleague’s privacy regarding their condition. Avoid discussing it with others unless they have given permission to do so. 
  • Flexible Work Environment: Offer flexibility in work hours or tasks if possible. Accommodations such as flexible scheduling or remote work can help manage symptoms during difficult periods. 
  • Set Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate job responsibilities, deadlines, and expectations. Having a clear structure can help reduce stress and anxiety. 
  • Be supportive: Foster a supportive and understanding workplace culture where employees feel comfortable seeking help and accommodations without fear of discrimination. Offer emotional support and understanding during challenging times. Let your colleague know that you are there for them and willing to assist in any way you can. 
  • Encourage Self-Care: Encourage your colleague to prioritise self-care activities such as regular exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and engaging in hobbies or activities they enjoy. 
  • Identify Triggers: Work together to identify potential triggers in the workplace and develop strategies to manage or avoid them. This may include minimising stressors or providing coping mechanisms. 
  • Encourage Treatment: Encourage your colleague to seek professional help and adhere to their treatment plan, whether it involves medication, therapy, or other forms of support. 

Remember that every individual is different, so it’s essential to communicate openly and collaboratively to determine the most effective ways to provide support in the workplace. 

At BNSHE Consultancy, we offer Mental Health First Aid Training Courses that will give you a basic knowledge of what mental health is and how to look after your own mental health and well-being.    

It will also give you confidence to support someone who is in distress or who may be experiencing a mental health issue and will give you advice and confidence on how to talk to someone who might have bipolar or be facing any other mental illness.  To find out more about this course and others, click here or email info@bnshe.co.uk today.    

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