Talking to your employer about bipolarity is a delicate but sometimes necessary step.Doing it with clarity, tact, and confidence can help you build trust and get the support you need.Here is a simple guide to help you approach this conversation with more peace of mind.
It’s generally better to wait until your trial or probation period has ended.
This gives you time to demonstrate your value, build trust, and understand how the company works.
Waiting a few weeks after the probation period can also help you feel more secure before sharing something personal.
What are the motivations for talking about it? There are several reasons why you might choose to discuss this topic:
This conversation is never mandatory. You share only what you feel comfortable sharing.
Many countries offer incentives or support programs for companies that create inclusive workplaces.
These may include:
Even if your country does not have a formal system, employers often value being seen as supportive and inclusive.
Describe concrete strategies for managing mood swings typical of bipolarity in the workplace. For example, explain the importance of proactive communication with the Occupational medicine and the possibility of taking early vacations or work schedule adjustments during periods of manic or hypomanic phase or in depression. This part could also include advice on setting up a personalized action plan in the event of a psychological emergency.
A section could be devoted to how employees and employers can work together to create a supportive and productive work environment. Discuss best practices for open communication, respect for confidentiality, and the importance of adapting roles to accommodate specific needs without compromising team performance and integrity.
Document to be filled out directly: File
Before you start, it's important to weigh the pros and cons:
Knowing that you do not have to communicate your RQTH to your employer, it is often appropriate to take the necessary steps just in case.
Your speech should be structured and clear. Here is a frame you can use:
Before going to HR, it’s often best to speak with your direct manager first. Try to see the situation from their perspective:
Managers mainly want clarity, predictability, and solutions.
Explain the potential impact on your work, then immediately present the concrete adjustments that help you stay effective. The more prepared and reassuring you are, the easier the conversation becomes.
“Above all, it is important to take a step back and think about the impact that this could have on your professional situation. Make sure that it will benefit you and that it will contribute positively to your healing journey. Talk to friends and family first to get their opinion. It is crucial to feel secure, that is, to have passed the trial period, because you can be fired for no reason during this period.
Once you've taken that step, it's best not to talk about it right away. Wait until you feel confident with human resources or your employer. Explain that you have a disease that you work on a daily basis to be as best as possible at work, and that you want to talk about it for the sake of transparency and to better manage possible relapses. It's also important to be prepared to briefly explain what bipolarity is, as people often have a limited understanding of it.”
“I worked as a paramedic for two years. During the second year, I changed companies and eventually wanted to resign because managing my bipolarity was becoming too difficult.
When I explained this, my employer immediately told me that accommodations were possible and asked what would help me. I did not continue because I wanted to leave the job anyway, but it showed me something important: it is possible to talk about your bipolarity at work, and many employers are willing to adapt.
I would advise speaking to your employer when the situation truly requires it, whether as a preventive step or in an emergency. You do not have to share everything, and you do not have to disclose any official status, but preparing your options in advance can make the process easier and give you more confidence.”
Do not hesitate to suggest information resources and help like HopeStage, or any other organisation, for your employer. We offer outreach services, conferences, and workshops that can be very helpful.
For more information, you can consult another of our articles: How do you work with a bipolar person? | HopeStage.
Finally, invite your employer to ask questions. It shows your openness and your desire to create a constructive dialogue.
Talk to your employer about your bipolarity is a courageous approach that can bring a lot of positive things to your professional career. By preparing carefully and broaching the subject with transparency and trust, you can turn this situation into a real opportunity.
If you need support, consider contacting us: hi@hopestagege.com
Good luck!
