Sandy Lovejoy  Monster Contributing Writer 

Employee & Job-Seeker Tip

MIND YOUR

PSYCHIATRIC SYMPTOMS AT WORK

OVERVIEWOVERVIEW11..

If you have a psychiatric disability and hold down a job in a workplace where most of the employees do not share this disability, you have a variety of stressful situations to deal with. Because of the stigma still attached to mental illness (it’s slowly getting better), it is hard to decide whether to share this personal info with coworkers and supervisors.

Whichever route you take, you may have fears about acting or looking weird while you're working. Here are five suggestions for alleviating some of the stress...

1. OVERVIEW1. OVERVIEW

FIVE TIPS ON MANAGINGYOUR MENTAL ILLNESS AT WORK

FIVE TIPS ON MANAGINGYOUR MENTAL ILLNESS AT WORK22..

2.1 MAKE SURE YOUR JOB MATCHES YOUR COPING SKILLS

2.1 MAKE SURE YOUR JOB MATCHES YOUR COPING SKILLS

Be honest with yourself about your strengths and limitations. Then align yourself with a work environment that meets your needs in ways that don’t overly stress you.

For instance, if you hear voices often despite medication, and listening to music is a good way to tune them out, working in an office or a job site where you can have headphones or a radio may be a good option.

If pressure to keep up with a hectic pace jangles your nerves, or a condition like depression slows you down, stay away from the restaurant industry, assembly-type jobs or publishing.

2.2 RESPECT YOUR ABILITY TO CONCENTRATE2.2 RESPECT YOUR ABILITY TO CONCENTRATE

Many people like variety in their work; you wouldn’t be alone in needing to shift your attention from a task.

Frequent but brief breaks may be an accommodation you need to request from your employer.

If you do take breaks, find ways to do it that don't look too obvious to other workers who don’t get this privilege. Smoking breaks each hour will call attention to you. Talk with your boss about how to change what you’re doing legitimately.

2.3 MAKE A FEW FRIENDS AT WORK2.3 MAKE A FEW FRIENDS AT WORK

People who have been out of the workforce for periods of psychiatric hospitalization or time in the mental health system, often feel different and are fearful of socializing with people who haven't shared their experiences and may not understand.

But staying apart from others only confirms that you are different, in their eyes. Becoming friendly with a few people doesn't mean you have to share your life story, but it can make you feel like you have some allies and give you another reason to enjoy coming to work.

Making sure that you have a support system outside the workplace means you always have people to rely on.

This support group should include your doctor, therapist and your employer’s confidential Employee Assistance Program (if available), and your family.

One of the best things you can do for yourself is to find or begin a support group of other people with a psychiatric history who are working “regular” jobs. You can discuss your fears, attempts to cope and successes.

2.4 HAVE A STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM OUTSIDE OF WORK

2.4 HAVE A STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM OUTSIDE OF WORK

If your medication works, don't take med vacations without your doctor's support and until you are well-situated in your job.

Sleep disorders are often part of the illness, but you need to keep your wits about you, so ask for help if this is a problem.

Eat healthy food on a regular basis. Avoid substances you know will impair your functioning, and try to get regular exercise -- one of the best stress releasers of all.

2.5 STAY ON A REGIME THAT HELPS KEEP YOU STABLE2.5 STAY ON A REGIME THAT HELPS KEEP YOU STABLE

more on this topic:Mind Your Psychiatric Symptoms At Work

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