A recent study conducted by Bipolar UK has revealed alarming statistics showing that more than half of employees living with bipolar disorder have lost their jobs due to the condition. The research found that 63% of individuals with bipolar have faced job loss directly related to their condition, highlighting the challenges many face in the workplace.
The charity is now urging employers to provide better support for those living with bipolar. They are calling for the implementation of meaningful Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) policies to create a more supportive environment. Bipolar is classified as a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010, which means that employers are legally obligated to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate individuals with the condition.
Despite these legal protections, the study revealed that discrimination and stigma are still prevalent in the workplace for those with bipolar disorder. Many survey respondents reported instances of job loss, being overlooked for promotions, and feeling forced out of their roles after disclosing their condition to senior staff members.
Simon Kitchen, CEO of Bipolar UK, emphasized the need for increased understanding and support for individuals with bipolar in the workplace. He highlighted the importance of eliminating the fear and ignorance surrounding the condition and fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusion.
The study also shed light on the impact of bipolar disorder on employment rates, with estimates suggesting that only 40-60% of individuals with the condition are employed, compared to the general population’s average employment rate of 74%. Joanna Dunbar-Webb, who lives with bipolar, shared her personal experience of facing challenges in various job roles before eventually qualifying as a solicitor.
Dunbar-Webb stressed the significance of creating a working environment where all employees are educated and aware of bipolar disorder. She emphasized the importance of practical measures such as solid EDI policies, flexible working arrangements, and increased awareness among colleagues.
The call for better support and understanding for individuals with bipolar disorder in the workplace aims to not only benefit those directly affected by the condition but also their colleagues, senior management, and society as a whole. By fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusivity, workplaces can create a more supportive and accommodating environment for individuals living with bipolar disorder.