“Friday 30th March 2018 marks World Bipolar Day. Approximately 2 in every 100 people have bipolar disorders in the UK, yet they are often misunderstood and stigmatised. Contributor Pat Ashworth, Director of Learning Solutions – AdviserPlus.

Bipolar disorders can severely affect many aspects of life, including employment. Characterised by changes in mood occurring with varying degrees of rapidity, bipolar disorders can impact on an employee’s behaviour in the workplace, and so receiving the right support from their employer is essential to help them maintain a productive and fulfilling job.

“That’s where managers play a crucial role in providing a supportive work environment – where people who experience bipolar disorders, and other mental health conditions, are able to speak honestly and openly about it. But because of misunderstandings around mental ill-health and the fear of saying something wrong, many managers are often too scared to speak to employees with bipolar disorders.

“It’s vital that managers receive training to ensure they understand that mental ill-health can take many different forms, are equipped to deal with highly sensitive issues and feel confident in speaking to employees about their wellbeing.

“While it’s encouraging that mental ill-health, including bipolar disorders, is beginning to be recognised by businesses as an issue that can affect anyone, there is still much to be done to reduce stigma and improve support for those with mental ill-health. Only then can inclusive work cultures be created that allow all employees to be productive.”