Author: Matthew Palmieri
Managing a mood disorder while maintaining a steady job often feels like a balancing act. There have been times when I felt I had been stable for a significant period, only to suddenly face a manic episode. These episodes can cause me to make rash, short-term decisions with long-term consequences. If you’re managing a mental illness while holding down a job, there are several early signs.
Early Warning Signs
Changes in Energy Levels
Many people associate less sleep with decreased energy, but for someone managing bipolar disorder, the opposite can be true. A shift in sleep patterns — especially when I’ve had less sleep than usual — often leads to an increase in energy. This could indicate that a manic episode is brewing. To counterbalance this, I try to compensate for a sleepless night by getting extra rest the following night to reset my sleep cycle. Physical exercise also helps me burn off excess energy. Depending on the nature of your job, being active or moving around (for instance, in retail or physically demanding positions) can help manage energy fluctuations.By being more attuned to what my body is going through, I am more likely able to use my time off to reset.
Difficulty with Focus
When my mood starts to shift, maintaining focus becomes a struggle. Tasks that once felt easy can seem overwhelming, and I may find it harder to concentrate on the details. This can have a direct impact on my work performance, especially in jobs that require multitasking or attention to detail.
However, being vigilant while discussing my experience with a therapist can make a big difference. Sometimes by slowing down, I end up performing better, even if my pace feels a little unnatural at the time.
Shifts in Social Behavior
When I’m beginning to experience a mood shift, I may become more withdrawn or excessively talkative. I may feel an urge to either isolate myself or over-engage with others. It’s important for me to be mindful of these tendencies and evaluate whether they’re out of character.
Emotional Changes
If I find myself ruminating on something that bothers me for an extended period, it’s a red flag. Other signs may include an overwhelming need to explain myself repeatedly or criticize a coworker’s actions. This can manifest as reacting impulsively rather than taking a moment to reflect and respond appropriately.
How to Regulate
Regular Self-Check-Ins
It’s crucial to assess whether a job aligns with my overall treatment plan. Does it contribute to my stability? Do I often feel a compulsion to quit without considering the long-term consequences? I ask myself these questions on a regular basis because sometimes bipolar tricks me into thinking that work is the enemy, and not the sustenance I need to maintain regularity in my schedule.
Communication is Key
Respectful communication with colleagues and supervisors is essential. It helps to share my needs and limitations, fostering understanding. Even if I don’t disclose my illness to an employer, I always try to stay on top of my moods and communicate my feelings thoughtfully and respectfully.
Practicing Healthy Coping Strategies
In moments of heightened stress, I rely on my established coping strategies. These may include mindfulness techniques, writing, exercise, regular sleep, and seeking support from friends or mental health professionals.
Set Realistic Expectations
It’s important to evaluate whether the job fits into my long-term career goals and an overall sense of fulfillment. Does it contribute to a sense of purpose, or is it simply a means to an end? Both can be true, but ultimately understanding I only have so much time on this planet, means that I should honor and listen to my inner voice, especially if it is telling me it may be time to move on to something different.
Lean on Your Care Team
When in doubt, I always return to the guidance of my therapist. She can offer crucial support, perspective, and strategies for managing mood shifts in a work environment that I may not have considered.
Conclusion
Managing bipolar disorder while working can be challenging, but recognizing the early signs of a mood shift and responding thoughtfully can help me prevent potential disruptions. Being proactive about self-care, maintaining open communication, and having a solid support system in place can make all the difference.
The content of the International Bipolar Foundation blogs is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician and never disregard professional medical advice because of something you have read in any IBPF content.
