How to Work with a Coworker with Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder affecting individuals for life. After diagnosis, the drug most often administered is lithium, which stabilizes mood. This medication makes a return to normal life possible, so that the individual can work, support a family, maintain a social life, and participate in spiritual activities. Occasionally, he may grow agitated or experience symptoms even while taking his medication. If this occurs, a visit to his doctor for a blood test is in order. Once the test results are in, the doctor adjusts his dosage until normalcy is once again restored.

Things You'll Need

• Compassion
• Empathy

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Instructions

• 1

  Be supportive of your coworker, since a person with bipolar disorder wants the same treatment as others. When his day at work is stressful, he wants to talk it out and feel understood with one of his coworkers, so act supportive when he comes to you.

• 2

  Don't walk on eggshells. That only reminds her that she's different and doesn't fit in, which increases her stress levels. Allow her to fit in by treating her as you would your other coworkers, that is, with kindness and respect.

• 3

  Include him in lunch activities. The last thing a person with bipolar illness needs is exclusion, which can lead to depression or anxiety. Don't take responsibility for his illness; however, consider inviting him to lunch or to an after work event that you've scheduled with other coworkers.

• 4

  Read about Bipolar Disorder to get an understanding of your coworker's illness. Through reading, you'll learn about the physiology, depression, anxiety, and the highs and lows that can be so much a part of her daily life.

• 5

  Report any unusual actions as your coworker may forget to take his medication. If medication is skipped for long periods of time, symptoms will appear. Watch him to determine if you need to report his behavior to your supervisor.

• 6

  Pay attention if she talks about suicide. Some days are more psychologically painful than others and the added burden of bipolar disorder makes it worse. Remain supportive, but if she expresses suicidal ideas, report it to a supervisor or the human resource department.