‘Following my bipolar diagnosis, my social work team helped me remain in the job I love’

by Gemma S.

I have been a qualified social worker since July 2021, and ten months ago, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

An estimated 40 million people live with bipolar disorder worldwide, yet this is often viewed negatively in society. Stigma and discrimination are widespread, both within communities and health services.

‘I found myself hiding my diagnosis’

When I received my diagnosis, I really struggled emotionally. In truth, I mourned for my former self.

I strove to be open, raise awareness and show there was no shame in being bipolar. But I soon discovered it was not as easy as I initially thought. I found myself hiding my diagnosis and feeling ashamed of it.

At the beginning I was even unsure about disclosing my diagnosis at my workplace, out of fear I would be regarded negatively.

As a social worker, I pride myself on showing kindness, challenging injustice and working with people who feel on the margins of society.

But I was not giving myself that same kindness and understanding or standing up for what I thought I needed.

Ultimately, talking to my team felt right – I had built a good relationship with them and had a desire to support others in understanding mental health conditions.

A third of people with bipolar disorder face workplace discrimination

According to a 2020 survey carried out by mental health charity Bipolar UK, while 90% people disclosed their condition to their employer, 24% ended up regretting it.

The reasons for this were evidenced in a follow-up 2024 survey, where nearly a third (32%) of over 1000 individuals with bipolar disorder revealed they had faced workplace discrimination.

This time a quarter chose to keep their condition private.

A 2024 Community Care poll, meanwhile, found that over half of 625 respondents had either experienced or witnessed mental health-related prejudice.

However, one commentator on the related article spoke about how disclosing a diagnosis could help model authenticity about anti-discriminatory practice. That resonated with me.

I do feel that sharing my story with my manager and team has allowed me to be my authentic self.

‘They huddled around me like one big hug’

Having the right people in your corner is paramount.

I feel very fortunate to have an amazing team at the council I work at. They have shown understanding and care about my wellbeing.

On one occasion, when I was experiencing a depressive episode, I messaged my team and manager that I was struggling and feeling low, but that I still felt able to work.

They huddled around me like one big hug; checking in with me, offering a listening ear and recommending support services like occupational health and counselling/support groups within the local authority.

My team supported me with my workload and even brought in snacks and pop. It meant the world to me, and I truly appreciate them all.

Most importantly, this allowed me to continue working full-time and progress in a job that I love.

It makes me sad to know this is not everyone’s experience.

Receiving services as a social worker 

Adapting to my new identity as ‘someone who receives services’ has been a challenging experience.

As a person with lived experience and a professional, I was able to fight for the care I wanted. But there have been times when I felt vulnerable and powerless.

I have had to really fight for person-centred care for myself, to have a say and be part of the co-production around my own care.

When picking up my prescription from the pharmacist, medication changes were made without my input or any notification. I challenged this and asked the community mental health team to work with me, not for me.

I requested regular reviews and asked to be included in all discussions and decisions, as this is what I advocate for the people I support.

‘It’s important to be kind to yourself’

Currently, l feel positive about my future in social work and am returning to university to enhance my learning.

I am managing my bipolar disorder through medication, with support from my mental health team, practising good self-care and managing my wellbeing.

I have realised that being kind to myself is so important, especially when navigating life as a social worker. It requires much self-love, empathy, kindness and understanding.

‘Reach out for support’

I am sharing my experience to raise awareness that, even as a professional working within health and social care, I have faced difficulties with receiving person-centred support.

Working in a pressurised and demanding environment can be a challenge for anyone, but particularly for people with a mental health condition.

It is so important to reach out for support and have the backing of a marvellous team.