If you’re one of the millions of Americans with bipolar disorder, you know that finding a job can be tough. The good news is there are plenty of low-stress work-from-home jobs that are perfect for people with bipolar disorder. Here are some of the best options.
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According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Bipolar disorder affects more than 2.8% of the U.S. population and can cause extreme shifts in moods, energy, and activity levels. Individuals with this disorder often struggle to balance their job tasks while managing their mental health needs.
That’s why identifying several low-stress jobs is beneficial for individuals with bipolar disorder.
Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder
People suffering from bipolar disorder may undergo mania or fear, as well as depression and denial. Symptoms may appear as impulsive changes and interfere with their activities. Complications often result in severe emotional distress.
Mood disorders are one of the most common mental illnesses in the United States. According to The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 7% of U.S. adults, or about 21 million.
That’s just the U.S. There are an estimated 46 million people around the world, according to Mental Health World data!
Here are some examples of bipolar disorder symptoms.
- Your bipolar I classification. Includes at least one bipolar episode that may have preceded it or been characterized by hypomanic or major depressive episodes. In some instances, mania may cause a break from reality (psychosis).
- Bipolar II disorder. You have been diagnosed with and treated for major depression or two bipolar episodes. You don’t appear to have manic episodes.
- Cyclothymic disorder. A minimum of two years or a year have passed in childhood and adolescence, as well as a teenager if you have somewhat hypomanic episodes and depression for a brief period.
What Type of Remote Work Is Best Suited for Bipolar Disorder?
Low Stress
The job you decide on plays an important role in figuring out the degree of stress you encounter daily. Low-pressure jobs that don’t require rapidly changing tasks or tight deadlines can help decrease your stress level every day.
A Quiet Environment
a quiet setting can help you feel more relaxed. This may mean seeking a company with a more laid-back culture, such as a role that requires you to work in a peaceful setting. Much like a home setting.
Flexible Work Options
Sleep deprivation is another factor that can increase the chance of bipolar episodes. Therefore, to stay as healthy as possible, it is advised to take on roles with daytime hours or shifts and avoid those with a schedule that interferes with sleep. A consistent schedule is a good option.
Creativity
People with bipolar disorder who want to excel at their jobs may discover that their careers are most successful when they include artistic expression. Perhaps, through your hobbies or with jobs that allow you to pursue projects away from your job, you can have a creative outlet.
Frequent Breaks
If you need frequent breaks, working from home will let you do so. Taking frequent breaks before you’re likely to need them is especially crucial if your stress levels increase. Your work performance is vital so, taking breaks to regroup is best.
Supportive Environment
An encouraging employer will be sure to work within the limits of your particular abilities. Reasonable arrangements such as work hours or part-time work can be a good fit.
The Best Low-Stress Work-From-Home Jobs for People with Bipolar Disorder
1.) Bookkeeper
Becoming a bookkeeper offers many advantages. Firstly, it is one of the best jobs for individuals with bipolar disorder.
Bookkeepers can work from home, eliminating triggers that may increase symptoms and allowing for more control over time management.
Additionally, working from home means there are no commute times to consider, meaning energy levels can be better managed throughout the day.
The role of bookkeeper often requires no prior experience or expertise outside of basic mathematics and accounting knowledge — both skills that many people with bipolar disorder possess in abundance due to their attention to detail and creative problem-solving abilities.
As such, a bookkeeper presents an excellent opportunity for individuals who want to work remotely while providing stability through consistent hours and relatively good pay rates.
If you want to learn more about how you can start your own business as a bookkeeper, you can check out this free training.
2.) Proofreader
Becoming a proofreader is another one of the best work-from-home jobs for someone with bipolar disorder. As a work-from-home option, it allows you to set your hours and work around your moods.
It’s also an excellent choice if you want to use your great attention to detail and impeccable grammar skills in a job. Plus, since there are so many online companies that need proofreading, there are plenty of opportunities available.
Before starting as a proofreader, it’s important to understand what the job involves. You’ll be reading files for errors, typos, and things not constant in spelling or punctuation – all while ensuring that the overall tone and style remain the same throughout the document.
You should also get familiar with formatting styles that may be required by different publications before plunging into the projects they assign.
If you’re interested in learning how to become a sought-after proofreader, this resource is the best way you can do that.
Related: Where Is the Best Work-from-Home Proofreading Jobs?
3.) Graphic Designer
Graphic design is a profession that can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be tough for anyone, especially someone with bipolar disorder.
However, that doesn’t mean that a person living with bipolar cannot become a successful graphic designer; in fact, many creative professionals are managing their disorder while still thriving in this industry.
Working as a graphic designer requires self-discipline and the ability to manage stress levels; both of which can be difficult when coping with bipolar disorder.
The key to successfully working as a graphic designer for someone living with bipolar is twofold:
You must learn how to properly manage the symptoms of this illness through treatment and lifestyle changes.
Secondly, you must be sure you have an understanding employer willing to offer the necessary give-and-take to help you succeed.
4.) Writer
A writer is one of the best work-from-home jobs for those who are living with bipolar disorder because this career allows you to work at your own pace. You can take time off when you need it and, as a result, avoid becoming too stressed out.
Writing provides a great outlet for creative expression, which can help to manage mood swings and other symptoms related to this disorder.
It helps keep the mind focused on something productive while allowing you to express your emotions safely and securely.
Writing comes in several formats – poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and blog posts – so it offers plenty of opportunities to explore different styles and topics.
The Ability to work by yourself at home also eliminates some of the stresses that can come with working in an office environment or public space. For those living with bipolar disorder, having control over when you write and how much you write each day is key to staying healthy and productive.
If you are serious about writing and want to make money doing it, you can discover careers in writing where you can earn great freelance income. Or if you’d prefer copywriting or want to learn in-demand copywriting skills fast, you can.
5.) Researcher
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that can be hard to work in a traditional office environment. However, becoming a researcher could be an excellent option for those with bipolar disorder looking for an effective way to work from home.
Researching offers many benefits to you because it doesn’t require the same level of social interaction as many other jobs do. It also allows you to focus and productively use your skillset while still providing the flexibility and comfort that comes from working at home.
With research, you can be creative and independent, which can help you maintain good mental health, especially when dealing with unplanned mood swings related to bipolar disorder.
Furthermore, researching provides unique opportunities for self-improvement and growth by allowing you to learn new things and challenge yourself skillfully.
Related: 13 Market Research Interviewer Jobs You Can Do from Home
6.) Virtual Assistant
People with mental health disorders are often faced with the challenge of finding a meaningful job that is flexible and accommodating to their mental health needs.
Working from home is often a great solution, as it allows for greater control over your own schedule and working environment. Becoming a virtual assistant could be an ideal work-from-home job for you, as it lets you make money while still giving you time to attend to your mental health needs.
One benefit of this work-from-home job is that it offers flexibility in terms of hours and whatever pace works best for you. This means that you can take breaks or adjust your schedule when needed without affecting your overall work or earnings potential.
7.) Social Media Management
Social media is an ever-growing and popular field. As a social media manager, you can work from home, set your hours, and choose projects that best suit your skills.
If you have bipolar disorder, becoming a social media manager could be the perfect work-from-home job.
The flexible schedule of working as a social media manager allows you to maintain your desired level of work while still getting the rest you need.
Being able to control when and how often you work reduces much of the pressure associated with traditional jobs and prevents you from feeling overwhelmed or exhausted.
Related: Work from Home Websites for Moms: A Simple (But Complete) Guide
8.) Customer Service Representative
Customer Service Rep jobs are a great option for low-stress work. Working as a customer service rep is often considered an entry-level position, but it can be very rewarding.
Not only do customer service reps get the pleasure of working with people and helping them solve issues, but they also don’t have to worry about the same level of pressure that higher-level positions may require.
The job duties mainly consist of answering phones, responding to emails, handling customer inquiries and complaints, and providing helpful information or solutions.
You would typically receive a lot of training before taking on your own set of responsibilities, which helps ensure that you know exactly how to handle any situation that comes up in your day-to-day work.
The environment is generally relaxed and allows you to work at a comfortable pace without feeling overwhelmed by the workload. That’s why it made my list of one of the best work-from-home jobs for people with bipolar.
Related: 15 Online Chatbot Support Jobs from Home
Related: How to Get Paid to Review Phone Calls (Make Money from Home!)
9.) Medical Records Technician
Many companies allow you to work from home updating patient information. Or contacting patients to remind them of their appointments. Humana is one of them.
10.) Web Developer
Becoming a Web Developer is one of the best work-from-home jobs on the internet. This job requires minimal contact with people and allows you to take control of your schedule to stay healthy and productive. Web development offers an opportunity to make a living while still providing the flexibility needed to manage bipolar disorder.
If you are interested in becoming a web developer, there are many resources and tech companies available. Online courses or boot camps that offer instruction on coding languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
With these tools, aspiring web developers can learn the skills necessary for designing websites and other digital products. In addition, mentorship programs assist experienced professionals who specialize in web development. By learning from experts in the field, newcomers can hone their skills quickly and achieve success faster than if they were trying to do it all alone.
11.) Tutor
Online tutoring jobs offer people with bipolar disorder an ideal way to work from home and still earn a living. These jobs provide flexible hours and the ability to choose when they want to work—all while providing much-needed stability in an otherwise unstable environment.
Plus, online tutoring also allows individuals with bipolar disorder to apply their strengths and creativity while connecting them with students all over the world.
For those looking for ways to break into the online tutoring sphere, there are options available that cater just to people with bipolar disorder.
StudyPool allows you to apply and earn money by answering homework questions.
Related: How to Get Started Teaching Online Without a Degree
12.) Yoga
Yoga is one of the most popular forms of exercise for those living with this condition, and practicing yoga online has become more and more popular. Online yoga classes offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and cost, as well as access to expert instructors and peers for support.
Yoga is an excellent form of exercise for people with bipolar disorder because it helps promote a sense of balance that may otherwise be hard to achieve.
With online classes, you can practice at your own pace in the comfort and safety of your own home or office space. The best part is that there are often free lessons available on YouTube or through other sources, making it easy for anyone to begin building a regular practice without investing too much money upfront.
If you like teaching yoga, I’m sure you could start a YouTube channel with free daily practices while building an audience, then branch out into a membership.
13.) Hair Stylist
Becoming a hairstylist may be the perfect fit. Hair styling is an ideal job for people with bipolar because it is creative, flexible, and allows you to work independently. Furthermore, since this profession is purely service-based, it lets you express creativity without necessarily needing prior experience.
Having your own home business as a hair stylist requires minimal start-up costs and equipment so long as you have access to basic tools such as scissors, combs, and brushes.
One important factor to consider before becoming a hairstylist at home is how often you desire customer contact. You may find having clients in your own home can be overwhelming, so research other ways to get clients, such as online booking systems for appointments or advertising on social media. Additionally, it’s worth considering if you have enough space in your house where clients can come and go without much disruption in your daily life.
14.) Blogging
Blogging is a powerful tool that can be used to express yourself in many different ways. It can also provide an outlet for you. Through blogging, people with bipolar have the option to explore their thoughts and feelings in a creative and therapeutic way.
Making blogging one of the most incredibly popular work-from-home jobs while dealing with bipolar.
Creating a blog gives you a unique platform to document how you face life differently than those without the condition. People living with bipolar can use blogging as an avenue to discuss issues related to mental health, such as dealing with stigma or sailing through daily challenges associated with the illness.
It’s also a powerful way to share stories of hope and resilience as you manage your mental health journey or even just take some time off from everyday stressors by using creative writing prompts for inspiration.
Related: Want More Money? Know the Advantages and Disadvantages of Blogging
Related: Free Resource Guide for New Bloggers
15.) Massage Therapist
Massage therapy is a very popular career choice for individuals looking to help others in a healing setting. However, being a massage therapist with bipolar disorder can be hard and requires extra planning and dedication.
Those suffering from bipolar disorder can find it difficult to focus on tasks, concentrate on their work, or interact socially with clients during certain phases of the illness.
Despite this, those with bipolar disorder can still be successful massage therapists, provided they make sure to prioritize self-care and take proactive steps to ensure they can deliver quality service consistently. This may involve scheduling regular breaks throughout the day or creating support networks that they can rely upon when needed.
16.) Website & App Tester
For many, the testing of websites and apps can be a tedious and hard task. But for David Smith, a website and app tester living with bipolar disorder, it’s a dream come true. I read this article on Quora.
David says his experience with bipolar disorder makes him an even better tester than colleagues without the condition because his ability to focus on details is enhanced when manic or hypomanic states set in.
“I can sit at my computer for hours analyzing code, data points, feature sets — anything that needs scrutinizing,” he explains. “It’s like being hyper-focused on steroids!” He adds that despite having periods of depression, which can make him feel overwhelmed by the work at times, the positives outweigh any negatives tenfold.
17.) Product Reviewer
Do you have an eye for detail and a knack for finding great products? Then you may have what it takes to be a product reviewer! Product reviewers are in demand by businesses of all sizes, as they provide valuable insights into how customers view their products.
As a product reviewer, you will be responsible for testing new products and providing feedback on their quality, usability, and overall customer experience. You could review anything from clothing items to electronics or even food. Your job is to provide honest reviews that help companies understand how their customers experience the product and if any improvements can be made.
Being a product reviewer can be incredibly rewarding; with each review, you will get the satisfaction of knowing that your input has been heard by the company.
18.) Data Entry
Data entry jobs can offer flexible hours that can fit in with your ever-changing moods and energy levels. For example, when your bipolar episodes flare up you can take breaks as needed or adjust your hours around your medication schedule, allowing you to remain productive and earn an income despite your condition.
Data entry also presents little risk since you’re not required to interact with customers or colleagues face-to-face. This can help keep anxiety around social interaction at bay which is common among those living with bipolar disorder.
Furthermore, it allows you to develop your skills without having to leave your home for a job interview or put yourself in difficult situations due to being on public display at work.
Related: How to Make Money Typing Online from Home
Related: 36 Remote Online Data Entry Jobs Without Investment
The Benefits of Work-from-Home Jobs for People with Bipolar Disorder
Working from home can be a great option for people with bipolar disorder who are looking to become more productive and reduce their symptoms.
For those who need flexible hours, the ability to work in their environment without distraction, and the chance to better manage their mental health, working from home can provide some of the best work-from-home jobs for bipolar sufferers.
Managing your atmosphere is especially useful since it reduces stress levels that can trigger or worsen mood swings.
Working from home also provides an opportunity to create a schedule that works around any necessary therapies or treatments while still being able to provide a structured workplace where the amount of work you do is rewarded.
This flexibility gives home-based workers the opportunity to find a balance between their work life and personal life.
The Challenges of Work-from-Home Jobs for People with Bipolar Disorder
Working from home has become more popular for people with bipolar disorder due to its flexibility, the reduced stress of not having to interact with colleagues, and the ability to tailor a work environment that suits them best.
However, some challenges come with working from home for those who face mood swings.
The most difficult challenge for those with bipolar disorder is managing their energy levels when not being monitored by an office manager or supervisor.
People suffering from this mental health condition tend to be highly productive at certain times and not very productive at others, so they need to have a good schedule to prevent burnout.
Furthermore, without proper limits between work and personal life, it becomes easy for people experiencing episodes of mania or depression to overwork or underwork themselves can lead to further problems.
Untreated Bipolar Disorder
I am no specialist in mental health conditions, nor will I ever pretend to be. The insights I have uncovered in this area have given me a vast knowledge of how important a support network is.
With that being said, if you think you have bipolar disorder, please see a doctor or mental health professional.
Here are a few signs to look for if it is untreated.
- Extreme mood swings- emotional highs to emotional lows.
- Episodes that trigger manic episodes result in people appearing euphoric, energetic, or irritable.
- During a depressive episode, you might appear sad, upset, or tired all the time.
- A person with a severe depressive episode shows these symptoms: low energy level, difficulty concentrating, or restlessness.
Other Ways to Make Money with Bipolar Disorder
Did you know you could earn extra money by entering into research studies? Well, you can!
The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance offer current research studies that you can apply to participate in.
Resources That Can Help
Learn more about ways to reduce workplace stress and enhance personal well-being, improve life-work integration, and create a culture of wellness through the WorkWell podcast series.
My Support Forums has a great search tool that allows you to enter a search term to find relevant content. If you’re a member, you can create a new thread and browse the archive of forum posts for free.
Can I Have a Successful Career with Bipolar?
Those with bipolar disorder can indeed find satisfying jobs and be successful. Working from home provides the flexibility and control over your environment that can be so beneficial. With access to the right resources, such as job boards, training programs, and support networks, People with bipolar disorder have a lot of potential to pursue their career of choice.
It is encouraging to see how far we have come in providing meaningful work options for those living with mental illness.
Want more? Check for more online work. 25+ Online Jobs from Home Without Investment
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