A supportive work environment isn’t just nice to have. It’s a must — especially for people managing mental health conditions like bipolar disorder. Symptoms such as mania and depression can make it challenging to keep up with daily life, let alone hold down a steady job.

Nonetheless, many people with bipolar disorder find rewarding work that offers financial and social support, as well as a regular or flexible schedule to promote a healthy work-life balance.

Working on a consistent schedule can help support other healthy habits, such as regular meal times, daily exercise, and sleep, which are beneficial for managing bipolar disorder. In addition, rather than working in a highly stressful environment that may trigger mood swings, a calm atmosphere is ideal for those with bipolar disorder.

Working on a consistent schedule can help support other healthy habits, such as regular meal times, daily exercise, and sleep, which are beneficial for managing bipolar disorder.

Here are some job options to consider. These jobs usually offer flexibility, manageable tasks, and supportive environments that help people maintain stability. Creative roles, structured jobs, or remote work may make it easier to manage symptoms of bipolar disorder. Plus, positions that allow for adjustments based on mental health needs can lead to long-term success and job satisfaction.

1. Library Worker

There’s a range of part-time and full-time jobs at the library, depending on your preferences and education level. Day-to-day work in the library is generally not stressful. The library has a calm, quiet atmosphere. There’s also some social interaction between coworkers and patrons.

In addition, libraries are typically closed on Sundays and holidays, meaning you’ll have daytime hours without overnight shift work.

Examples of library jobs for people with bipolar disorder include:

• Library page — Lower-wage job, part-time flexibility, mainly involves organizing bookshelves
• Library assistant or tech — Working at the checkout desk to assist patrons, assign library cards, and collect fees (part-time or full-time)
• Librarian — Requires a master’s degree and helps with research, teaches classes, and makes decisions about library resources

Libraries also employ library managers and directors. These roles may require planning budgets, training employees, and engaging in public and governmental relations. Salaries vary widely based on the size and scope of the library. In addition to your local community library, college libraries and other types of libraries could also be good options.

2. Banking Jobs

If you’re familiar with the term 'bankers’ hours,' you know it once referred to shorter workdays for bank employees. While many banks have expanded their hours in modern times to better serve customers, they often still maintain more limited hours compared to some other businesses. Additionally, similar to library jobs, working in a bank typically means having evenings and holidays off, with limited weekend hours. This consistency can be especially beneficial for people with bipolar disorder, who may benefit from maintaining a regular routine.

Bank tellers typically need a high school diploma rather than a college degree. Other roles at the bank, such as accountants, investment bankers, or financial planners, require more training and education.

3. Landscaper

If you love the great outdoors, landscaping could be a rewarding career. You can choose to work independently or join a larger company. Landscaping offers flexibility, from part-time solo projects to building a full-scale business with a team of employees.

Research shows that spending time in natural environments can improve mental health. Even in urban areas, being outdoors in parks and green spaces can enhance mood and boost brain function.

4. Physical Therapist or Personal Trainer

Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Instead of being overwhelmed by negative thoughts or worries, you can focus your energy on making a positive impact in someone else's life.

Physical therapists are health care professionals who undergo years of college education and medical training. They work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers, helping people regain strength and mobility after surgeries or injuries.

Personal trainers, on the other hand, typically work in gyms or fitness centers. This role does not require a college degree, but certification is necessary, which involves completing a course and passing an exam. Personal trainers create customized workout plans and guide clients in reaching their fitness goals.

Both career paths share two key benefits: They allow you to help others while staying physically active, which in turn can support mental well-being. Additionally, both roles often offer flexible schedules, making part-time or contract work an option.

5. Remote Customer Service

Working from home can be an ideal setup for people with bipolar disorder, as it removes the stress of commuting. Without the need to prepare for a day away from home — like packing a lunch — mornings can unfold at a more relaxed pace. If you enjoy your home environment and don’t mind spending most of your workday on the phone or computer, remote customer service offers a flexible opportunity.

Working from home can be an ideal setup for people with bipolar disorder, as it removes the stress of commuting.

Most customer service jobs provide training and don’t require an advanced degree. With some experience, you can explore other roles in the field or advance to a managerial position. As with any job, the quality of your work life can vary based on your colleagues and supervisor. Finding a supportive team and a manager who encourages your success is crucial for thriving in this role.

One of the biggest advantages of remote work is the flexibility it provides during breaks. This freedom allows you to take a walk outside or practice a few minutes of meditation — activities that can give people with bipolar disorder a positive boost that might be harder to achieve in a traditional office setting.

6. Writer or Editor

Writing and editing are diverse fields with much to offer. These roles can be creative or technical, collaborative or independent, depending on your interests. For individuals with bipolar disorder seeking the flexibility of remote or freelance work, writing and editing can be excellent options.

The internet has created new opportunities to work from home in these fields. Whether you’re crafting brochures, editing speeches or reports, developing marketing materials, or working on a creative writing project, there’s a wide range of possibilities.

Given the breadth of this field, it’s important to narrow down your interests and strengths. Reflect on your background and the training or experience you can bring to different writing or editing projects. Consider taking online courses to enhance skills like proofreading or creative writing. Connecting with professional writing and editing organizations or joining artistic community groups can also help guide your career.

Practical Tips To Find the Right Job

People with bipolar disorder are usually diagnosed around age 25, right as they’re entering their peak working years. While prioritizing treatment is essential, finding a job doesn’t have to be put on hold. In fact, working can provide valuable structure that helps manage life with bipolar disorder.

Working can provide valuable structure that helps manage life with bipolar disorder.

A great starting point for your job search is online. Before applying, update your resume to highlight your strengths and tailor it to the type of role you’re pursuing. Consider what kind of job, schedule, and work environment will suit you best, and adjust your resume accordingly.

You can find free resume templates online to get started. For additional support, American Job Centers across the U.S. can assist with every step of the job-seeking process. Connecting with people who work in the field you’re interested in — either in person or online — can also provide valuable insights into what the job is like. Building connections and staying open to new opportunities is key when navigating a new career path.

If you’re living with bipolar disorder, let your mental health providers know about your interest in finding a job. Life changes, such as starting a job search, can influence bipolar symptoms, both positively and negatively. Extra guidance from a professional who understands your condition can be helpful. Your provider might even refer you to a social worker or career counselor who is familiar with the challenges of bipolar disorder and can support you in your job hunt.

Your counselor can also help you decide whether to disclose your condition to a new employer. If you choose to disclose, you may be able to request accommodations that can make it easier to manage the ups and downs of working life with bipolar disorder.

Your counselor can help you decide whether you should disclose your condition to a new employer and potentially request accommodations.

How To Get Other Forms of Support

Even with the best intentions, it’s not always possible for people with bipolar disorder to maintain a regular job that covers all of their expenses. That’s why it’s important to explore other available resources.

Bipolar disorder is recognized by the Social Security Administration, but this recognition does not guarantee automatic qualification for disability benefits. If you’ve been diagnosed by a health care provider, you may consider applying for assistance programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Applications can be submitted online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.

Applications for SSI and SSDI require documentation demonstrating your inability to work. It typically takes about four months for an application to be processed. Additionally, speaking with a social worker can help you identify more assistance programs and community resources that can provide further support.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On MyDepressionTeam, the social network for people with depression and other related mental illnesses, more than 148,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with depression or bipolar disorder.

Has working improved your mental health and well-being? Have you had any luck finding a job that helps you manage stress and maintain a regular sleep schedule? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.