How to Cope With a Coworker Who Has a Psychological Disorder

According to a 2009 article from "Psychiatry Quarterly," the unemployment rate for people with diagnosed psychological diseases is 48 to 73 percent, depending on the diagnosis. Even though mental illnesses are recognized as disabilities under the Americans With Disabilities Act, many employers --- and coworkers --- still discriminate against people with mental illnesses. It is the responsibility of every employee to limit stereotyping and rejection of coworkers with psychological diseases so the workplace does not become hostile for anyone.

Instructions

• 1

  Educate yourself. Once you know the psychological diagnosis your coworker has, seek reputable sources of information on the signs, symptoms, treatments and prognosis of the mental illness.

• 2

  Accept your coworker's limitations without mistreating him or her. A 1999 report in the "Oxford Journal" states that 70 percent of people with serious mental illnesses noted they were treated as less competent by others. While psychological diseases do introduce limitations to a person's life, no one likes to be treated as though they're stupid or incompetent.

• 3

  Speak out if you see others discriminating against your coworker. The "Oxford Journal" study found that 80 percent of people with mental illness have overheard negative comments about mental illnesses, and being shunned or rejected is common.

• 4

  Separate the diagnosis from the person. Everybody has strengths and weaknesses, and people with mental illnesses need to be recognized for their strengths as individuals. According to a 2004 article in the "American Psychologist Journal," stereotyping people based on a mental health diagnosis impedes recovery and living the best life possible.

• 5

  Ask compassionate questions if you don't understand your coworker's behavior. A majority of people with mental health problems avoid telling others, so they can maybe avoid being stigmatized. Approach your coworker privately with a caring attitude, and try to understand him or her.