Other Mental Health Issues at Work

Other Mental Health Conditions in the Workplace:

Bipolar Disorder is considered to a disability under the Disability Discrimination Act (1995).

It is sometimes referred to as manic depression and describes a mood disorder that sees sufferers fluctuate between highs and lows. It is a complicated disorder as symptoms and the duration of episodes can vary widely.

Bipolar can be treated with medication and talking therapies, but is often misdiagnosed so a full assessment by a psychiatrist is an important first step.

To read more about Bipolar Affective Disorder

ADHD affects 4% of adults in the UK.

Sometimes known as attention deficient disorder it is a neurobiological condition that can make it difficult for the individual to concentrate on tasks. Common signs of ADHD are difficulties with:

• Managing time
• Organisation and planning
• Listening and paying attention
• Following directions
• Focusing on the detail
• Not speaking over other people
• Sitting still and attending meetings
• Keeping emotions under control

To read more about ADHD

ADHD can be successful treated. If you suspect your employee may be showing the signs of ADHD you can talk to one of our occupational health advisors about how best we can support you.

Autism and Asperger’s:

Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome are not just conditions that affect children, many adults with these conditions have been misdiagnosed or never received a diagnosis.

The signs of autism and Asperger’s can range from mild to very severe but traits of the spectrum disorder commonly include:

• Difficulties with social skills – for instance maintaining eye contact, respecting personal space, understanding body language, relating to others
• Ritualistic or obsessive compulsive behaviour – change can often be very difficult to manage, there may be set routines for how things are done
• Sensitive to sensory stimulation – some people on the autistic spectrum find certain textures, for instance clothing, noises and light levels incredibly uncomfortable and distracting

To read more about Adult Autism and Asperger’s

How can Clinical Partners help you?

It can be difficult to know if your employee is suffering with a mental health condition and what can be done to help them.

It can also be really hard to know how to talk to the employee about your concerns. There can be stigma attached to mental health conditions, but often illnesses are treatable.

Our senior occupational health advisors can help you with any concerns you might have. Their aim is to get your employee back to work and we have experience tailoring our support to meet your needs.